A father of four from Ba remains missing after an outing to collect kai at the Ba River turned into a worrying incident on Sunday, police and village residents say. Gaberieli Walu Ratu, who left home about 10am to gather sea mussels near the Ba Bridge, did not return after attempting to cross the river in the early afternoon.
A fellow villager, identified as Gabby Ramoce, posted on social media that at about 1pm he attempted to cross the river carrying a bag of kai and “struggled” partway across. Ramoce’s account raised the alarm in nearby settlements when Ratu was not seen again; it is not clear from the post whether Ramoce and Ratu were together at the time of the incident or whether Ramoce’s post referred to his own difficulty crossing while searching for Ratu.
Police confirmed search operations are under way and said officers are working alongside community members from Votua, Nawaqarua and surrounding areas. Teams have been combing riverbanks and nearby mangrove stands, with residents joining the effort, but authorities have not yet located Ratu or provided any update on his condition. No official cause has been established and no body has been recovered, police added.
Mr Ratu, widely known in his community as Gabby, is the sole provider for his four children after his wife’s death two years ago, a fact that has heightened concern among relatives and neighbours. Family members have been reported to be at the river edge as searches continue, appealing to those in the area to assist and to come forward with any information.
Collecting kai, particularly mussels and other shellfish, is a common livelihood and food source in coastal Fiji, and crossings at river mouths and bridges can be hazardous when currents are strong. Local residents say the Ba River’s flow can change quickly, but police have not commented on environmental conditions at the time of the incident.
Searches are ongoing today. Police have urged anyone who saw Mr Ratu after he left home, or who has footage or other information that might assist the inquiry, to contact the nearest station. Community volunteers have vowed to continue assisting until there is clarity on Mr Ratu’s whereabouts.
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