Residents of Newtown, Cuvu, Nadroga, are in shock after the body of a community member was found floating in the Cuvu River yesterday.
The deceased has been identified as Ravnit Dass, 32, a mechanic.
The body was discovered by two farmers working on their plantations near the river.
Rattan Kumar, 66, Mr. Dass’s father, said their last conversation was on Monday.
“He came home on Monday night around 7 p.m., dropped his tools, and said he was going to his friend’s house,” Mr. Kumar recounted.
“That was the last time I heard from him until his body was discovered today.”
Nadroga Navosa Advisory Council chairman Subrail Narayan expressed that this was a significant loss to the community.
“He used to fix my vehicle. He was smart and a hard-working guy with a good heart,” Mr. Narayan said.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu stated that authorities were notified around midday.
“Police managed to identify the deceased male, and other details will be released later. The investigation continues,” he said.
Funeral arrangements will proceed after the post-mortem examination.