Family Reel From Sudden Death Of 32-year-old Son
Govind Raju, 53, was at a loss for words when he received news that his oldest son, Ashneel Mani, died last Friday.
The late 32-year-old Mr Mani worked as a freelance electrician for Rakiraki-based company, New Tech Power Solutions. He died as a result of injuries allegedly sustained from falling off a ladder while installing a bore- hole pole in Naseyani, Rakiraki at around 4pm.
“He was fit and he was a nice boy, he never fought with anybody and if anyone said anything he wouldn’t talk back,” Mr Raju said.
The father of two said his late son was single and resided with his parents and younger sister at Wailevu, Nanuku, Rakiraki.
“My sister’s husband told me on Friday last week that he (Ashneel) was at the hospital. Funeral arrangements would be made after the post-mortem,” he said.
Mr Mani’s co-worker of four years Sundres Salvasiwan confirmed he was with him on the day the incident was said to have taken place.
“We just had to put the post, but it started to rain and boss was telling us that it was late but we (he and Ashneel) just tried to talk to each other and we said we can do it. I tried to climb the ladder and do it, but I couldn’t so he said he could do the wire,” he alleged.
He claimed Mr Mani attempted to climb the ladder, but fell midway while climbing.
“When he fell I just carried him and told one boy to take him in the van to the hospital,” he claimed.
He said despite sustaining injuries to the back of his head Mr Mani was still conscious.
New Tech Power Solutions Director Prakesh Chand Mudaliar said he was assisting Mr Mani’s family in terms of funeral arrangements and compensation.
“He (Mr Mani) is also my relative, he was like a son to me. I’ve got all the details, I’m going to fill the form and everything,” he said.
Police Spokesperson Ana Naisoro said that it is alleged the victim fell from a three-metre ladder on September 23 where he sustained serious injuries and was then rushed to Rakiraki hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Story By: Salote Qalubau
Feedback: salote.qalubau@fijisun.com.fj
