Five rescued after overnight sea search off Vatulele

Five people, including a child, were rescued from an overdue boat in rough seas this morning after an overnight search operation between Korolevu and Vatulele.

The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Fiji, based at the Vuvale Maritime Essential Services Centre, was activated last night after receiving reports that the boat had failed to arrive as expected.

The Republic of Fiji Navy deployed RFNS Savenaca in the early hours of today, while a New Zealand Defence Force P-8 aircraft and two domestic aircraft carrying Navy search-and-rescue air riders joined the operation.

The overdue vessel was located and all five occupants were rescued safely.

RFNS Savenaca is now transporting the rescued passengers back to shore.

The NZDF P-8 aircraft was also en route to assist with another search-and-rescue operation involving an overdue boat in Kiribati, which is being coordinated by JRCC Fiji.

The Navy said the successful rescue highlighted the strength of coordinated search-and-rescue efforts involving JRCC Fiji, JRCC New Zealand, the Republic of Fiji Navy and other deployed rescue units.

The Republic of Fiji Navy acknowledged and thanked all personnel involved in the operation.

Authorities are again urging mariners, particularly operators of small boats, to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.

“Do not take risks that could endanger your life and the lives of others,” the Navy said.