Jap Ship Lost Near
p. 44 · Read in the full issue
New Hebrides
IN the News of Smallships, this issue, there is a report of one Japanese fishing vessel strand ing in the Lau Group, Fiji, and of another being in trouble some days earlier.
Later advice from Vila reports that this latter vessel sank on October 8, after being abandoned.
A message was received in Vila via Suva on October 7 from the Japanese mother-ship requesting permission for Kuaei Maru, 83
tons, and Seizy Maru, 150 tons, to put in to Havannah Harbour, north of Vila, for shelter. The smaller vessel was in tow with a broken crankcraft and was leaking. A more powerful towing vessel was expected.
Permission was granted but before the French Commandant of Police had arrived on the scene the ships proceeded to sea after being at anchor for only a few hours.
Next day Suva advised Vila that
advice had been received Kuaei Maru had been abann in rough weather and was s slowly sinking. Mariners warned, and there the into ended. 11 Members of the Fiji Copra for the next two years are M W. G. Johnson, R. N. Caldww G. Archibald, L. R. Martin, Hedstrom, Inosi Vatucicila, Simpson, Ulaiasi Vosabalavu.