Boat Mishap Kills One, Three in Hospital

The death of Josateki Sadrugu, a father of three, has shocked his family and Vio islanders in Lautoka. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said the 26-year-old was among four people sailing in a punt that allegedly crashed into a pilot boat yesterday morning.

“At the moment, the only details are that upon returning from fishing, they crashed into a pilot boat and the captain died,” Ms Naisoro said.

Mr Sadrugu and four Vio islanders were reported to have gone spear diving on Wednesday night at Taulolo when the alleged incident happened. His aunt, Bale Rainima, said her nephew was planning to contribute fish for a function in the village.

“On Monday we met to decide on our contribution for the opening of our village hall today (yesterday). He said he would provide fish for the function. That was why he went fishing early this morning,” Ms Rainima said.

“We were waiting for the fish at Lautoka jetty. Later, about 7am, I saw a crowd of people with police officers surrounding a boat. I knew something had gone wrong. When I went to the scene, I was told that my nephew had died from an incident out at sea. I was shocked, and it was like a dream that he was no longer with us.

“Sadrugu is a kind-hearted and hard-working person. He does spear-diving to support his family. It is so sad because his children are still young,” Ms Rainima said.

Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau said his office was aware of the incident.

“I am aware, and MSAF is investigating that. And again, it’s in process in terms of the investigation and what needs to come out of that,” he said.

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