Five year old swept away in Sigatoka, police continues search

Search efforts will continue this morning for two people, alleged to have drowned in separate incidents in the Northern and Western Divisions.

Fiji Police Force confirmed this morning that the first case was reported at Cogea Village, whereby a 65-year-old man whilst trying to cross a swollen river near his village yesterday afternoon, was swept away by strong currents.

"Search efforts were initiated with negative results," Fiji Police said in a media statement.

"The second incident, which involved a foreign national, occurred in Sigatoka, near the Biausevu waterfall.

"The victim, a 5-year-old child, was swept away by the strong current.

"Search efforts were initiated with negative results."

Teams consisting of Police officers and community members continued search efforts in Sigatoka.

Police were unable to reach Cogea Village to assist with search efforts due to the flooding of roads and crossings, and continue to liaise with community members.

"The latest weather bulletin issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service as of 4.30 am this morning, stated that heavy rain and flood warnings remain in force for the Fiji group, and the Fiji Police Force is calling on members of the public to take necessary safety precautionary measures.

"Warnings are issued for everyone’s safety and must be taken seriously."

Police is reminding parents and guardians to always monitor their children’s whereabouts.

"Do not attempt to cross flooded roads, crossings, or swim across swollen rivers.

"Please cooperate with authorities by adhering to safety advisories."