The discovery of a body near Fletcher Road in Vatuwaqa today has heightened concerns within local communities, marking the fourth body found in Fiji over the past month. The grim finding was made in the typically quiet Muaniwavu settlement when a mother and daughter, on a quest for herbal medicine, stumbled upon skeletal remains among the mangroves early this morning.
They promptly reported their discovery to the authorities, and police were dispatched to the scene with the assistance of a boat. Eyewitness Waisake Sawanivalu noted that when officers arrived, they identified the remains, estimating that the body had been in the area for some time, likely since around Christmas. Preliminary assessments suggest that the deceased may be a young man between the ages of 25 and 30.
Merewalesi Seruvatu, a nearby canteen operator, recounted her experience upon arriving at the scene around 7 am, where she encountered a gathering of people and police. After inquiring about the situation, she learned it was related to one of the bodies that had been found. She added that the state of decomposition of the body shocked residents, with locals stating that such occurrences were unprecedented in their area.
Police have commenced investigations, and efforts are underway to confirm the identity of the deceased. This discovery follows three other tragic incidents in recent weeks: on December 6, a woman’s body was located in Lautoka; a 15-year-old boy’s remains were found later in Tamavua-i-Wai; and another man’s body was also discovered in Lautoka just last Sunday.
As the investigation continues, it is hoped that answers will soon come to light regarding these unsettling finds, providing some closure for the families affected and the community at large. The unfolding situation underscores the importance of community vigilance and communication with local law enforcement, as the safety of residents remains a collective priority.
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