A French sailor has been killed in Milne Bay in the south east corner of Papua New Guinea and his yacht sunk after an attack by local “raskels” according to media reports and information supplied to Noonsite.

Published 3 months ago

Suspects in Custody

According to reports in Papua New Guinea news media, two male suspects are in police custody after being arrested in connection with the murder of a French national solo sailor, who was anchored in Milne Bay near Bonobona Island in the Suau-Alotau District of Papua New Guinea.

Reports indicate the sailor – a 76 year old named as Jean Michael – was killed onboard his yacht which was then sunk by the attackers.

Attacked by Cowards

Police Commissioner David Manning was reported as saying “there can be no excuse for this type of opportunistic and pathetic crime.”

“This man was travelling through our country and was attacked by cowards,” he said.  “Those reponsible will face justice as police maritime units focus on community safety.”

The two suspects were arrested on Friday July 26 following the murder.  Commissioner Manning said that the Papua New Guinea Government was in talks with the French Government over the incident.  Efforts continue to retrieve the sailor’s body from the sunken vessel.

Victim was waiting for a weather window

A comment posted on Noonsite’s PNG page by a fellow sailor said Jean Michael had been anchored for about four days, waiting for a weather window to continue his journey.

Hans from SY Seagoon said he had visited Milne Bay, New Ireland and New Britian 24 times since 1993 and never had any problems. “I always tell people not to anchor near the main land anywhere. Stay at the small islands and you will be safe,” said Hans in his comment on Noonsite.

Christine Pakakatoa, Editor in Chief of The National newspaper in Papua New Guinea confirmed their report of the incident and said there were no new updates.

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Related News:

• Frenchman’s Killing Irks Alotau MP (The National PNG)
• Two Arrested over Milne Bay Murder of French National (PNG Haus Bung)

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