Overview:
The search for the missing passenger from a boat that capsized near Angaur has officially ended after five days of surface and aerial operations. Eight of the twelve people on board survived, three died, and one is presumed dead. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, including compliance with maritime safety regulations, while President Whipps extended condolences to the families affected.
By: L.N. Reklai
Koror, Palau (January 30, 2026) — The search for the missing passenger from a boat that capsized near Angaur officially ended Wednesday, Jan. 28, after five days of extensive surface and aerial operations by marine law enforcement and partner agencies, authorities said. The search concluded with no positive results, and the missing individual is presumed dead.
President Surangel Whipps Jr. on Thursday extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy during a press conference in Koror.
“Let us remember the recent tragedy in Angaur and keep in mind and in our prayers those who were injured and those who passed away from this tragedy,” Whipps said. “Our prayers are with the families who lost loved ones.”
The incident occurred Jan. 23 after a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of improvements at Angaur Elementary School. A 38-foot boat carrying a contractor and his construction crew back to Koror capsized in the notoriously rough Angaur Channel amid extremely hazardous sea conditions.
Twelve people were aboard the vessel. Eight survived, three died, and one passenger was reported missing.
Following the capsizing, authorities launched a five-day surface and aerial search involving marine law enforcement and partner agencies. The operation ended Wednesday due to the absence of new leads.
On the day of the incident, the National Emergency Management Office issued a small craft warning, advising against travel by small watercraft because of rough weather and high waves outside the reef.
Minister of Justice Jennifer Olegeriil confirmed the warning was in effect at the time but said it did not carry legal authority to prohibit individuals from going out to sea.
Olegeriil said an investigation remains ongoing, including whether the vessel was operating as a commercial charter and whether it complied with maritime safety requirements. She said findings from the investigation will be released once the probe is complete.