Two tragic drowning incidents were reported yesterday amid unsettled weather conditions affecting various regions of the country. In Lautoka, an eight-year-old boy named Ernest Pickering was discovered floating in the Kaleli River around 10 AM. The primary school student had ventured out with his older brother to collect bamboo near their residence.
Concerned for their grandchildren’s safety, the family became alarmed when their grandfather called for them and noticed Ernest was missing. Unfortunately, despite efforts to find him, it wasn’t until police notified the family that they learned of Ernest’s body being located in the river. He was the youngest of five siblings.
In a separate incident, a man in his sixties was also found deceased while fishing off Tubou in Lakeba, floating motionless in the sea. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding both tragedies, and post-mortem examinations will be carried out as part of the ongoing inquiries.
The incidents serve as a somber reminder of water safety, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. Communities are urged to remain vigilant and take precautions when engaging in water-related activities.
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