### New Zealand Navy Ship Sinks Near Samoa, Sparking Fears of Oil Spill

A significant environmental threat looms near Samoa following the tragic sinking of the New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui. Local authorities have raised alarms about the high likelihood of an oil spill that could devastate the marine ecosystem.

On Sunday, just one mile off the coast of Upolu, Samoa, the HMNZS Manawanui capsized after running aground during a hydrographic reef survey. The incident occurred early in the morning, leading to plumes of smoke and eventual sinking of the vessel within three hours. Fortunately, the 75 personnel on board safely evacuated in life rafts and reached the shore with the assistance of local rescuers.

Acting Prime Minister of Samoa, Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio, confirmed that the ship is irretrievable and expressed grave concerns about the potential environmental impact. Government agencies have already initiated environmental impact assessments to understand and mitigate the possible damage to the marine ecosystem.

Rear Admiral Garin Golding, Chief of the New Zealand Navy, emphasized New Zealand's commitment to supporting Samoa in assessing and reducing the environmental repercussions of the incident. The Manawanui, a specialized dive and hydrographic survey vessel, had been involved in coastal and harbor surveys, search-and-recovery missions, and underwater explosive disposal operations. This deployment was its third mission to the South West Pacific this year, and the ship was scheduled to return to New Zealand on November 1.

The New Zealand Defense Force remains focused on investigating the cause of the accident and ensuring that the environmental impact is minimized as much as possible.