The Fiji Police Force has made a heartfelt appeal to the public, urging individuals to avoid sharing videos and images of deceased persons, particularly following the tragic case of Unaisi Rokoura, the national netball coach who recently drowned near Navuso while searching for freshwater mussels. The circulation of footage related to the recovery of her body has raised significant concerns among authorities, particularly regarding the emotional toll on Rokoura’s grieving family.
Police officials have clarified that the distressing video was not captured by any team members involved in the official search, but instead by a bystander who was present during the efforts. In their statement, the police emphasized that distributing such content reflects a lack of compassion for the affected family, exacerbating their grief during this already challenging period. They have called on community members to refrain from commenting on or sharing the video, highlighting the importance of empathy and respect for the privacy of families in mourning.
Despite the removal of the original post, copies of the footage continue to circulate on various social media platforms, intensifying worries about the potential emotional damage inflicted on loved ones. The police reiterated the critical need to foster a considerate and respectful online community, particularly in the face of personal tragedies.
The incident underscores not only the deep sorrow surrounding the loss of a cherished sports figure but also highlights the ongoing issues of water safety in Fiji. Recent months have seen a troubling increase in drowning incidents attributed to strong currents in local rivers. Authorities are optimistic that these tragic events will heighten public awareness and facilitate the implementation of stronger safety measures around aquatic environments.
As the community comes together to mourn Rokoura’s passing, there is a shared commitment to honor her legacy by cultivating a supportive atmosphere that emphasizes empathy and prioritizes safety in recreational pursuits. The call for compassion in the wake of this tragedy showcases the strength and unity of the community, aiming to navigate these difficult times collectively and striving to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.