The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Naval Division personnel arrived on Kia Island to provide much needed protection following alleged incidences of illegal poaching recently.

After Tropical Cyclone Yasa and Ana created havoc on the island an added concern is the alleged attacks on Kia islanders in their fishing ground. This has prompted authorities to take action.

It comes as two incidents of alleged illegal fishing were reported to Police last month.

The arrival of the RFMF Naval Division personnel last Wednesday, has brought a sense of security villager Eseta Vulaca said.

She said they felt safe with the team’s arrival.

“Since the church was destroyed during Cyclone Yasa, we had to resort to using the hall for our church service,” Ms Vulaca said.

“We left the mess in our tents and got together to pray and thank God for loving us and protecting us from the storm that no life was taken.

“Everyone got together to have lunch with the Navy team on the island.

“That was a great time to reflect and thank God for his love and provisions for us,” she said.

The personnel are on the island investigating the poaching allegations and spend time with the villagers.

Headmen of Yaro village, Kemueli Lautiki, was grateful for the assistance from the Navy.

Rebuilding update

Meanwhile, Yaro villagers have managed to build 10 temporary homes from the materials they could salvage after the cyclones and donations from one of their own in the United States of America.

Mr Lautiki said the Kia-born islander had send money for 180 roofing irons which was distributed among ten families to help rebuild their lives back again.

The village headman of Yaro thanked everyone for their continued support towards the islanders.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa