Lomaiviti Princess 12 crew rescues missing health workers

Six medical professionals reported missing in the Lau Group have been found alive and rescued off the southwest coast of Lakeba this evening.

The group was located by the crew of Goundar Shipping Services' vessel, Lomaiviti Princess 12, near a small island off Lakeba.

Goundar Shipping Services owner George Goundar confirmed all six were safely brought aboard the vessel.

"They have all been rescued safely and are being transported to Lakeba, where they will undergo medical checks before the vessel continues its scheduled voyage," Mr Goundar said.

Mr Goundar commended the captain and crew of the Lomaiviti Princess 12 for their professionalism and dedication during the rescue operation.

"Our crew once again demonstrated their commitment and expertise during what was a challenging situation," he said.

He also acknowledged that improving weather conditions throughout the day assisted the search and enabled the crew to locate the missing group.

The rescue brought a successful end to an anxious search for the six medical professionals who had been reported missing yesterday.

In a statement tonight, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division thanked mariners and vessels operating in the area who responded promptly and supported the search effort.

"Special acknowledgement is extended to the captain and crew of Lomaiviti Princess 12 for locating and successfully rescuing the missing individuals. Bravo Zulu.

"We also thank all government agencies, search teams, communities and individuals whose collective efforts contributed to this successful outcome. May the good Lord bless you all," the statement read.

More details will be published in tomorrow's edition of the Fiji Sun.