Search efforts intensified for a 65-year-old man presumed drowned in the Northern Division of Fiji, who was swept away by strong currents while attempting to cross a swollen river near Cogea Village on Monday afternoon. Local villagers initially attempted to locate him, but their search was hampered as police faced difficulties accessing the village due to flooded roads and river crossings.
In an unfortunate parallel incident, authorities recovered the body of a five-year-old foreign national near the Biausevu waterfall in Sigatoka. The child had gone missing in the area before police from the Sigatoka Forensics and Criminal Investigations Department were able to transport the body to a mortuary for further investigation.
Recent heavy rainfall and flooding across Fiji have led the Fiji Meteorological Service to issue advisories about deteriorating conditions. In response, police have urged residents to take these warnings seriously for their safety, especially parents and guardians, reminding them to closely monitor their children’s activities.
Authorities have underscored the risks associated with partially submerged roads, river crossings, and swimming in swollen rivers. The community is being urged to prioritize safety and cooperate with the advisories issued, as these tragic events serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather conditions. By remaining vigilant and adhering to safety guidelines, the public can help mitigate the risks during such challenging times.