Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says that he is deeply concerned with reports of missing passengers on board the vessel MV Taimareho.
The vessel was on its way to Malaita when it encountered bad weather.
He stated during his nationwide address today that search and rescue was dispatched earlier today.
It is understood MV Teimareho encountered dangerous swells and heavy rain en route to Malaita, associated with tropical cyclone Harold.
The Prime Minister urged ship owners and the general public take heed of advice from relevant authorities to avoid such a situation.
He says all crews and vessel owners must put the lives of passengers first.
It is understood the vessel is currently at Su’u secondary school.