The former head of the Shipping Corporation of Polynesia, New Zealander John Jonesse, has been jailed for five years for manslaughter by negligence following his trial on charges relating to sinking of the Tongan ferry, Princess Ashika.
The ferry sank in August 2009, north of Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa. Seventy-four people died.
In the Supreme Court in Nuku'alofa today Jonesse was sentenced to five years for manslaughter, six months for forgery and dealing with a forged document and four years for sending an unseaworthy ship to sea, 3 News reported.
The sentences are to be served concurrently.
The ship's captain, Maka Tuputupu, first mate Sesmi Pomale and the Director of Marine and Ports, Viliami Tuipoluto, were also found guilty of various charges on Friday but have yet to be sentenced.
