A family in Naselutale Settlement in Korobebe, Nadi, is mourning the loss of their 19-year-old daughter who was swept by strong currents of the Sabeto River on Monday.

Dead is Sabeto College Year 13 student, Valeriana Veivuke, originally from Bemana in Nadroga.

Police spokesperson Naina Ragigia said: “The body is believed to have been washed ashore on Wailoaloa Beach yesterday afternoon at around 5pm,” Ms Ragigia said.

The body was taken to the Lautoka Hospital mortuary and identified by the father of the deceased, Meli Nakabu, 55, at the hospital.

Mr Nakabu said: “She was my only daughter and she was a very intelligent person, she wanted to become a doctor,” he said.

“This morning the Police called me to identify the body. It was hard to accept the news.”

Valeriana was the fourth of five siblings. A post mortem examination is expected to be conducted today.  Police investigations are continuing.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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