Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that two separate drowning cases which killed two children – one in the North, the other in the West – will be investigated for elements of child negligence.

The national drowning toll stands at 28 compared to 27 for the same period last year.

In Bua

Eight-year-old Jacob Vonoidakau would have embarked on Term 3, beginning tomorrow, like many students across Fiji.

But, that will not be the case after he drowned at sea at Navakasiga, Bua, last Wednesday.

The Year 3 student of Waibunabuna Primary School, Bua, is said to have taken his younger sister to the beach to look for seashells.

Ms Naisoro said his body was discovered by two other children who had gone to check on their fishing net.

Ms Naisoro said parental negligence would be investigated as the two siblings allegedly ventured without adult supervision.

The cousin of the deceased, who lives in Nasekula Village in Labasa said it was a tragic week for the family.

She said the post-mortem, which was conducted on Friday, confirmed drowning.

“The first thing identified was the excessive water filled in his body,” she claimed.

Drowning

Ms Divavi said on the day of the tragedy, Jacob and other children in the village were singing songs under a mango tree.

She said her aunt always had a strict eye for the whereabouts of her children.

However, moments after singing, the siblings decided to collect coconuts and bring it to their home.

Jacob is believed to have insisted to his four-year-old sister to accompany him to search for seashells on the beach.

A few minutes on the beach, the younger sibling noticed her brother’s absence and went home.

A few older boys who went to get their fishing nets saw Jacob’s body floating near the shore.

Ms Divavi said it was a dark day for the family and relatives to lose a loved one at such a young age.

In Tavua

At Nasivi River, a six-year-old drowned while swimming with siblings.

“He was spending his holidays with relatives at Vanuakula, Tavua, “ Ms Naisoro said.

She said two cases of drowning involving children were recorded last week.

“Parents and guardians are again being reminded about the need to strictly monitor their children’s movements, particularly if you’re living in an area surrounded by water.

“Drowning is preventable if necessary precautionary measures are adopted at all times.”

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