A three-year-old child has tragically drowned in Fiji, marking yet another sorrowful incident related to water safety in the country. Authorities revealed that a missing persons report was filed at the Nasinu Police Station on November 1st after the child disappeared from their home in Naibulivatu Settlement, Laqere. Family members and police officials promptly launched search efforts in hopes of finding the child.
Unfortunately, the search ended in heartbreak when the child’s lifeless body was discovered floating in a river close to the Wakanisila Settlement. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic occurrence.
This incident adds to the ongoing concern regarding drowning incidents in Fiji. The national drowning toll now stands at 27, which, while still concerning, reflects a decrease from the 45 cases reported during the same period last year. These unfortunate events serve as a grim reminder of the critical need for water safety awareness and the importance of vigilant supervision of young children.
Recent drowning cases underline the urgent requirement for effective safety measures around water, particularly for the community’s most vulnerable members. The Fiji Police Force is calling on parents and guardians to remain alert and supervise their children closely to help prevent future drownings. It is vital for communities to come together in promoting awareness and education about water safety, ensuring children can enjoy their time near water in a safe and secure manner. By fostering a collective commitment to this cause, there is hope for a significant reduction in future tragedies related to drowning.