Missing Labasa family found safe in Lautoka

A woman and her two children from Labasa, who were reported missing for more than two weeks, have been found safe in Lautoka.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that the trio were located in Lautoka and are safe.

The update follows an extensive police search for Ronika Chand, 36, and her two children, Raina Chand, 5, and Rihaal Deo, 14, after a missing person report was lodged at the Labasa Police Station.

The three were last seen after being dropped off by Ms Chand’s husband at the Interlink Shipping Line Limited bus stand area in Labasa Town. They were expected to travel to Suva by boat.

Ms Chand’s mother, Amla Wati, 67, of Naduna, Labasa, had earlier appealed to the public for assistance after losing contact with her daughter.

She said her daughter regularly travelled to Suva for medical treatment due to ongoing leg pain, and this was the first time she had taken her children along during the school holidays.

“The last time we spoke was around 8pm, and after that her mobile phone was switched off,” Ms Wati said.

She later confirmed that she had been informed of their whereabouts and that her daughter and grandchildren were safe.

“I have been told they are okay, and I am very relieved,” she added.