Bad weather halts Beqa search operation

The Fiji Police Force suspended its search today for the sixth occupant of a boat that capsized off Beqa because of unfavourable weather conditions.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed the development.

The boat capsized last Thursday afternoon.

Since then, the bodies of three victims have been recovered and taken to the Navua Hospital mortuary.

Two men were rescued and later discharged from Navua Hospital after receiving medical treatment.

Police also confirmed that the capsized boat was located and towed ashore on Friday.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) issued a public advisory yesterday, urging people to remain vigilant as adverse weather conditions persisted.

A coastal inundation alert was issued for the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, the southern parts of Viti Levu from Natadola through the Coral Coast to Navua, Kadavu and nearby islands.

The advisory stated that a high tide of 1.8 metres was expected at 5.45pm, with a moderate risk of sea flooding in low-lying coastal areas.