Romeo Itchner's disappearance in Huahine: the island in turmoil after five days of searching
Updated on 2025-11-22 01:44:00: Romeo Itchner, a fisherman in Huahine, has been missing for five days, plunging the island into concern.
What there is to know
- The fact: Romeo Itchner disappeared during a night fishing trip.
- Who is concerned: The inhabitants of Huahine and the family of Romeo Itchner.
- when: Missing since November 17, 2025.
- Where: Huahine, French Polynesia.
Romeo Itchner is still missing five days after his fishing trip
Emotions remain high on the island. Romeo Itchner, a fisherman and freediver, has not been heard from since he went out to sea on the evening of Monday, November 17. According to initial reports, he left the shore around 20:30 p.m. for a routine fishing trip.
The following morning, worried about his failure to return home, his wife alerted the police and fire department at 10:00 AM. The French Polynesia air and maritime search and rescue operations center was informed at 10:17 AM.
A major research effort has been mobilized.
Immediately, a large-scale search operation was launched. On land, patrols from the National Gendarmerie combed several sectors. At sea, two boats and a fire department jet ski scoured the lagoon, while a helicopter conducted aerial searches.
The search is focused on the southern part of Huahine, including the possibility of the vessel being drawn out to sea through the southern pass. Several relatives and residents are joining the investigation.
“All available resources were deployed. Eleven firefighters were mobilized for three days, but no signs of life were found.”
Lieutenant Romuel Lai · ©Chief of the Huahine Fire Brigade
Only Romeo's boat has been located near the motu Vaiorea. More recently, a snorkel belonging to him was reportedly found near the Haapu reef.
Official search has ended
Given the time that has passed and the lack of leads, the High Commissioner of the Republic has decided to end the official search. This decision is based on the uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of the disappearance.
However, the JRCC Tahiti continues to issue alerts to ships in the area.
An island on alert, a family waiting
While the official search has been suspended, the island of Huahine remains on orange alert. Roméo's family, supported by volunteers, are continuing their search.
A father of three and recently a grandfather, Roméo Itchner was known for his discretion and dedication. His family is appealing for help in finding his body.
Between incomprehension and contemplation, Huahine holds its breath. Waiting mingles with grief, in the hope that the ocean will finally return Romeo Itchner to his family.
Sources
Original Source: See the original publication
Date: 2025-11-22 01:44:00 — website: la1ere.franceinfo.fr
Auteur: Cédric Balcon-Hermand — Biography & projects
Application: Download Artia13 News (Android)
Our anti-disinformation AI: Fake News Analyzer (Artia13)
Published on: 2025-11-22 01:44:00 — Slug: disappearance-at-sea-off-huahine-Romeo-itchner's-family-keeps-hope
Hashtags: #Disappearance #sea #Huahine #family #Romeo #Itchner #guard #hope