An investigation is currently being conducted into a tragic maritime incident that occurred off the coast of Vio Island in Lautoka on Sunday evening, claiming multiple lives. Onboard a 19-foot fiberglass boat carrying five individuals, they embarked from Saweni, Lautoka, for a fishing trip to Cuvuli Reef. The incident reportedly took place around 8 PM and came to light the following morning, when one survivor reached the shore without a lifejacket and notified authorities.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has confirmed that the missing vessel has been towed back to port, and a joint investigation is underway, spearheaded by the Fiji Police Force with assistance from the Fiji Navy and MSAF. The inquiry will probe the causes of the incident and assess contributing factors, aiming to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
MSAF has expressed its condolences to the families affected by this incident, emphasizing that search and rescue teams are actively working in the area to locate the remaining missing individuals. They are reiterating the importance of safety compliance for all seafarers, urging boat operators to ensure their vessels meet safety standards including having valid lifejackets and lifesaving equipment, maintaining seaworthiness, holding valid captain’s licenses, monitoring weather conditions closely, and informing relatives or authorities of travel plans.
This unfortunate event follows a concerning trend of maritime safety issues in Fiji. Just days prior, another incident near Lautoka resulted in the loss of one life and the disappearance of several others, including a young child. As the cyclone season approaches, the call for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols becomes increasingly urgent. Authorities are stressing the need for communities to closely supervise children during water activities to avert further heart-wrenching incidents.
The resilience and support from the community have been commendable during ongoing search efforts, which reflect a shared hope for the safe return of those still missing. As investigations continue, MSAF remains committed to enhancing safety measures in the hopes of preventing future maritime tragedies, underscoring the inherent risks associated with marine activities. The collective commitment to improved safety can pave the way for fewer accidents and the protection of lives, ensuring that such heartbreaking events are minimized.
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