The body of former national netball coach Unaisi Rokoura has been recovered from the Rewa River, confirmed authorities. Her remains were located near the Waila dredging plant after she went missing while diving for freshwater mussels on Saturday. Tragically, another victim, a 34-year-old woman, who was with Rokoura during the incident, was recovered the previous day.
The police have initiated ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. This incident has drawn attention to the dangers associated with natural water bodies, a concern heightened by recent drowning tragedies in Fiji. The risks posed by strong currents in local rivers have prompted calls for greater public awareness about water safety.
Previous reports have highlighted similar incidents, reinforcing the urgency for educational initiatives to better inform the community on safety practices around water activities, particularly for children and inexperienced swimmers. The challenges faced during the recovery efforts for both Rokoura and the other woman serve as a reminder of the potential hazards present in local waterways.
As the local community rallies in support of the families affected by these losses, there is an encouraging spirit that such tragic events will lead to improved safety measures and increased vigilance around water bodies. The hope remains that the community can unite to foster an environment where safety around water is prioritized, ultimately preventing future tragedies.