Staff members of the Bamboo Travellers Resort in Wailoaloa, Nadi broke down in tears after they learnt that a close colleague was a victim of a two-vehicle smash in Rabulu in Tavua yesterday.

Dead is Manuha’apai Sauaki Besetimoala, 24, originally from Rakiraki and worked as a demi-chef.

The victim was travelling in a vehicle driven by 32-year-old colleague and accompanied by a 34-year-old New Zealand national who is believed to be a tourist.

The vehicle was travelling towards Rakiraki when it collided with a bus that was on its way towards Tavua.

IN HAPPIER DAYS… The late Manuha’apai Sauaki Besetimoala (left) with NZ chef David Spice and head chef Ravi Narayan. Photo: Ravi Narayan

Resort head chef Ravi Narayan, 25, originally from Rakiraki could not control his emotions.

“He was supposed to start with me for the afternoon shift, 2pm, but we were told of the sad story,” Mr Narayan said.

“He was one of my best chef and we have been working together for over a year now.

“I used to spoil him with the pronunciation of his long name which I knew by heart and everyone would ask me: Ravi, what is his name?

“When I mentioned his name he would just take it and reply with a laugh. That’s how close we worked here.

“You passed away so soon my friend,” Mr Narayan said while looking through photos on his phone.

According to Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro the victim died on the spot due the impact of the accident.

The driver and other passenger were rushed to the Tavua Hospital before being transferred to the Lautoka Hospital.

The driver is in a serious condition while the passenger is in a stable condition. Police investigation continues.

Edited by Percy Kean

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