31 December, 2025, 7:03 pm Central - 27°C Clouds

14-year-old’s dream of becoming a mechanic cut short as Police investigate death

14-year-old’s dream of becoming a mechanic cut short as Police investigate death

By Mikaele Liga
31/12/2025
14-year-old Uwate Soro's aunt, sister, and grandmother at their home in Wairua
The dream of becoming a mechanic will never be realised for 14-year-old Uwate Kini Soro, as Police continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death in Tamavua-i-Wai.

The Class 8 student of Suva Muslim Primary School loved playing soccer and had been staying with his grandmother during the school holidays and festive season.

His grandmother, 59-year-old Ema Ranadi of Gau, was overcome with emotion as she recalled the life of her grandson, the only boy in the family and the second eldest among three siblings.

His two sisters stood beside her in tears.

Ranadi says Soro often gave her headaches and at times, and mixing with the wrong crowd in the village.

She explained that he would sometimes come to stay with her when he was causing difficulties for his parents.

She recalled that on Christmas Eve, Soro had been drinking beer with friends in the village, which was the last time she saw him.

Villagers later informed her that he had been seen moving around drunk with his peers, marking the last sighting before his death.

Ranadi is now pleading with villagers and Police to help identify those responsible for her grandson’s death.

Soro was found lying motionless and unresponsive yesterday in Tamavua-i-Wai by a fellow villager.

Police have since cordoned off the area as investigations continue.

A post-mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted today.
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