Second body recovered in search for missing passengers

Another body has been recovered in the search for the 27 passengers who went missing three days ago after a boat incident in New Ireland Province.

The latest recovery was made early this morning along the coastline of Djaul Island, bringing the total number of bodies recovered to two. Both victims are female, while 25 passengers remain missing.

The second body was found about 10 hours after the first victim was recovered from the same coastline.

Authorities say the latest discovery will help guide today's aerial search operations as rescue teams continue searching the surrounding waters.

The first victim has been identified as Melat Victor Touran from Malakuna 4 in Kokopo District. Her body was airlifted to Rabaul Provincial Hospital yesterday afternoon.

The identity of the second victim has not yet been confirmed. Her body was transported by boat to the Rabaul Provincial Hospital morgue at around 10:00 this morning.

Search and rescue efforts are continuing.