By Sharon Lowa

Seven people have evaded death after they were rescued adrift at sea while 4 are still missing between Manus and Madang.

About 11 passengers had left the shores of Karkar Island in Madang sailing to Manus on a 23 foot boat when they encountered rough seas and strong winds which sank their boat.

Manus Provincial Police Commander Senior Inspector David Yapu said the boat was hit by a strong wave which sank the boat, leaving the 11 adrift on the sea.

Four of them including a female went missing at sea, whilst the 7 were rescued on the next day by another boat and taken to Lorengau.

Two of those rescued sustained injures to their hands and legs and were taken to Lorengau general hospital for medical checks before being released.

PPC Yapu has advised the relevant authorities including the National Maritime Safety Authority and boat operators travelling between Madang and Manus to keep an eye out for the missing people.

He also appealed to boat operators travelling out at sea to be mindful of bad weather and rough seas as per the weather warnings by the national weather service office.

Yapu cautioned sailors to be extra cautious when travelling at sea as safety was paramount.