Search and rescue efforts for nine people reported missing at sea have intensified, with authorities covering a vast area of approximately 20,000 square nautical miles since operations began late last week.
Fiji Naby said the search is being coordinated by the Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji, with support from the Fiji Navy, Fiji Police Force, Water Police, regional partners and local communities.
Today’s operation involved multiple air and sea assets, including the Guardian-class patrol boat RFNS Timo and a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft, significantly boosting aerial search capabilities.
Additional support included a Defence-chartered fixed-wing aircraft from Northern Air, a helicopter with Fiji Navy air riders, and two Water Police vessels.
Search teams focused on areas around Vatulele, Beqa, Kadavu and the Lomaiviti group, extending further west of Kadavu and along the Coral Coast. Authorities say search patterns have been guided by weather conditions and the last known position near Solo Lighthouse, north of Kadavu.
Officials confirmed that earlier search efforts were concentrated in waters around Solo Lighthouse and northern Kadavu before expanding outward.
Authorities say they have also been engaging with families of the missing, assuring them that all available resources are being used in the ongoing operation.
