Search operations have intensified for nine people reported missing at sea off Kadavu, with the Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji (RCC Fiji) coordinating a wider multi-agency response that now includes the Republic of Fiji Navy, the Fiji Police Force and regional partners. Authorities say the group failed to return from waters around Kadavu over the past few days and were last known to be in the area around Solo Lighthouse, north of Kadavu.
In an update issued as the search widened, the Republic of Fiji Navy said it was committing every available resource through RCC Fiji and would continue to work closely with police and supporting partners. Yesterday the navy dispatched RFNS Timo to bolster maritime search efforts, while aerial coverage has been provided by the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Local air service providers have also joined sorties to cover areas of interest identified by coordination teams.
Local communities and private operators have been assisting in the effort. Authorities said villagers along Kadavu’s coastline, communities on nearby Beqa and the Coral Coast, and hotel operators including Kokomo Island have been asked to remain vigilant and report any sightings. Kokomo Island staff have reportedly been helping to canvass nearby waters and relay sightings to authorities, the statement said.
RCC Fiji, which coordinates civil maritime search and rescue, has urged anyone who may have information to come forward immediately. Members of the public are asked to report any sightings of people, boats, floating debris or unusual activity at sea that might be linked to the missing group. Reports can be made through the turaga ni koro (village headman), the nearest police station or local authorities, the navy advised.
Search planners said combining maritime vessels, aerial reconnaissance and local reports improves the chances of locating survivors or debris in a wide search area, but did not provide a precise search pattern or timeframes. No details on the identity, number of vessels involved with the missing party, or the circumstances leading to their disappearance have been released; police and RCC Fiji said investigations and search planning are ongoing.
This is the latest escalation in the unfolding operation after initial searches over recent days failed to locate the group. With additional maritime assets on scene and international aerial support, authorities say they have expanded coverage and continue to urge coastal communities and maritime users to report any information that could assist the search.