6 Sep 2003

French Polynesian authorities open inquiry into loss of local vessel

9:46 am on 6 September 2003

Three separate inquiries have been opened in French Polynesia into this week's shipping accident that left three people dead and four missing.

The ship theTahiti Nui IV was carrying heavy construction material bound for Rimatara island in the south of the territory when it encountered heavy seas.

No cause for the accident has been established but it is believed the cargo may have shifted causing the ship to capsize.

Meanwhile, the first funeral has been held for a victim of the accident.

Karl Tauru was buried in Faa'a on Tahiti.

The vessel had 21 people onboard, 14 of whom were rescued