KOROR, Palau – A search is underway for a 46-year-old Taiwanese tourist who went missing after a dive expedition on Sunday, April 7, 2024.
The woman, identified as Wang Yi Wen, was part of a 14-person group that went diving early Sunday morning at Ongingiang, a dive site outside the reef of Ulong rock island. According to Bureau of Public Safety Public Information Officer Chief Ngiramengior, the divers surfaced and were returning to the boat when the woman dropped her camera and went back underwater to retrieve it.
“By the time the dive guide re-entered the water, the diver could not be located,” Chief Ngiramengior said.
Authorities were immediately notified, and a search began with all four search boats from Marine Law and Fish & Wildlife, along with assistance from private boat operators. An aerial search is also ongoing with support from Smile Air and PMA Air.
Weather conditions were good at the time of the incident, but Chief Ngiramengior said currents in the area could be a factor.
Palau’s search regulations mandate a five-day official search effort, after which it may be called off. Yesterday was the last day for the official search. However, private search parties can continue their efforts beyond that timeframe.