Search expands for nine missing at sea

Search and rescue operations are intensifying for nine fishermen reported missing at sea after departing from Vatuwaqa, Suva last week.

As of April 28, authorities have covered an estimated 20,000 square nautical miles in the search effort.

Concern is growing among families of the missing men as there has been no communication or confirmed sightings.

The fishermen left in the early afternoon of April 22 for a short fishing trip and were expected to return the following day.

Those missing are Osea Vakaruru and his three sons, Sitiveni Tekivakatini, Mateo Tikoitoga and Esekaia Boladuadua, along with their cousins Lemeki Tikoitoga, Savenaca Sautini, Pita Tikoisuva, Maciu Naiubalavu and Julian Tavola.

They were travelling in a fibreglass boat fitted with a 60-horsepower engine. Their last known position is believed to be near Solo Lighthouse, north of Kadavu.

Authorities confirmed the search, coordinated by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji, has entered a new phase, with the Republic of Fiji Navy leading efforts alongside the Fiji Police Force, regional partners and local communities.

Yesterday’s operation involved six search assets, including the Guardian-class patrol boat RFNS Timo, a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8 Poseidon aircraft, a defence-chartered fixed-wing aircraft from Northern Air, a helicopter with Fiji Navy air riders and two Water Police vessels.

Search teams have focused on waters around Vatulele, Beqa, Kadavu and Lomaiviti, extending further west of Kadavu and along the Coral Coast based on weather conditions and drift patterns.

Officials said the operation is being guided by information from families, with search areas adjusted according to ocean currents and prevailing weather.

Authorities are also engaging directly with families, assuring them that all available resources are being deployed.

Support has been provided by the Royal New Zealand Air Force, national agencies, local communities, hotel operators and private air service providers, reflecting a coordinated regional response.

Members of the public, particularly in coastal and maritime areas, are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of debris or unusual activity at sea that may assist the search.