Residents of Newtown, Cuvu, Nadroga, are in shock after the body of a local resident was found floating in the Cuvu River yesterday.
The deceased has been identified as Ravnit Dass, a 32-year-old mechanic.
Dass’s body was discovered by two farmers working on their plantations near the river.
His father, Rattan Kumar, 66, recounted that the last time they spoke was on Monday.
“He came home on Monday night at about 7 p.m., dropped his tools, and said he was going to his friend’s house,” Kumar said. “That was the last time I heard from him until his body was discovered today.”
Nadroga Navosa Advisory Council chairman Subrail Narayan expressed that the community has faced a significant loss.
“He used to fix my vehicle. He was smart, hard-working, and had a good heart,” Narayan said.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu stated that police were informed around midday.
“Police managed to identify the male deceased and other particulars will be known later. Investigation continues,” he said.
Funeral arrangements will begin following the post-mortem examination.