Southern Charter Freighter M.V. Moana Roa Missing off Somali Coast

Date: 21 Decmber 2023

In a concerning development, the M.V. Moana Roa, a 4000-ton freighter operated by Southern Charter, has gone missing off the Somali Coast. The vessel, dedicated to supporting the International Disaster Aid Program's (IDAP) humanitarian mission in and out of Mogadishu, lost its location tracking overnight.

All attempts to establish contact with the Moana Roa have proved futile, prompting Southern Charter to take swift action. The company is dispatching the M.V. John Matchett to the area for an immediate search and rescue operation. Additionally, air assets are expected to join the search effort in the coming days.

Sailing in the waters off the coast of Somalia is inherently perilous due to the persistent threat of piracy. The Moana Roa's disappearance raises concerns about the safety of the crew and the nature of the incident. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and further updates on the search and the vessel's status are anticipated in the coming days.

Last photo of Moana Roa as she sailed from Mogadishu