The MV SSC Fasefulu, which ran aground on a reef outside Salelologa on Monday, did not sustain any major damage and was refloated eight hours later. 

The Minister of Works, Transport, and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Vaai confirmed in a press statement issued on Tuesday that the vessel which ran aground on Monday morning was refloated at 7.30 pm on Monday night. 

The MV SSC Fasefulu ran aground at approximately 11.06 am on Monday at the entrance of the Salelologa channel in Savai'i, according to the statement issued by the Minister.

“A preliminary assessment into the matter has determined that there is no major damage to the vessel,” said Minister Olo. “Though, an in-depth investigation into this matter has commenced and is being carried out by the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure's Maritime Division.

“The SSC technical team managed to perform the repair works.”

Following the incident, Minister Olo said normal emergency procedures were followed by the captain and crew while they awaited technical assistance from the SSC. 

“The technical team and divers boarded the vessel later on that same day and commenced the assessment,” he said. “A plan was formalised with the discharge of ballast waters, transfer of bilge waters and fuel to lighten the ship.”  

The MV SSC Fasefulu was nearing the completion of its morning journey from Mulifanua to Salelologa wharf when it ran aground. On board were passengers, vehicles and other cargoes.

The press statement from the Minister added that all vehicles that were onboard the vessel were safely offloaded shortly after the vessel was refloated. 

The vessel is now watertight and has been able to sail back to Apia, Minister Olo added. He said the only costs associated are for the other services that were rendered to assist the recovery operation. He also confirmed the vessel did not run aground at the same location where the Police-operated patrol boat Nafanua also ran aground.

Minister Olo also used the opportunity to apologise to members of the public who were affected by the incident and for the inconvenience it may have caused.