The case of the missing person on a boat between Lou and Baluan Islands on New Year’s Eve is now being treated as murder after a lengthy investigation by police.
Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector David Yapu said the missing person was identified as Steven Chauka, 42 years from Mouk Baluan Island and he was travelling with three other persons at the time of the incident.
They departed from Loniu Bridge and were traveling to Baluan Island to celebration new year.
On the way, they consumed alcohol and a commotion started resulting in the deceased being thrown out at sea.
A search party was immediately mounted for him for several days but his body could not be recovered at sea.
Two of the suspects from Baluan Island were arrested and charged for murder and are now in police custody awaiting their appearances at the Lorengau Committal Court.
Chief Inspector Yapu further appealed to people not to drink alcohol while travelling on sea.