Fatal Tavua crash claims life of aspiring mine worker

Joeli Liwa, a father of one, had his dream of working at the Vatukoula Gold Mine tragically cut short following his death in a fatal road accident at Toko, Tavua, early yesterday morning.

The vehicle was driven by an 18 year-old-man who is now admitted at the Tavua Hospital with serious injuries.

Mr Liwa’s death has brought the number of road deaths to 65 so far this year, compared to 52 the same period last year.

Deaceased Joeli Liwa.

Photo: Supplied

Mr Liwa, originally from Sawanikula, Naitasiri was a passenger in the vehicle. He lived at Nademo, Vatukoula with his wife Vasiti and son, Josavata Tuidreke.

A distraught brother, Isea Mara said his 24-year-old brother, a casual worker, had recently applied to the mine company, hoping to secure a permanent job there.

“He (Mr Liwa) was working for Fletcher in Nadi, and had recently returned home,” Mr Mara said.

“I remember him submitting his application at the Vatukoula Gold Mine and was waiting for an opening. It was his dream to work there and be close to his family,” he said.

“My brother was the second eldest of us eight siblings. He recently started a family. I always look up to him. He will be missed by all of us.”

Police spokesperson Corporal Wame Bautolu said the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle causing it to veer off the road, the two men sustained serious injuries from the impact of the accident.

“They were rushed to the Tavua Hospital where the passenger was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspect remains admitted in hospital as investigations continue,” Mr Bautolu said.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj