Two lives have been lost in a tragic incident that occurred in the waters near Qamea in Taveuni on Thursday.
Police say a 48-year-old man from Dreketi Village and a 44-year-old farmer from Togo Village in Qamea were travelling in an aluminium boat when it collided with a 40-seater vessel from Laucala Island Resort, which was heading to Qeleni Landing after dropping off resort workers.
They say that due to the impact, both men were thrown into the sea with serious injuries.
Police say it is believed that both men died at the scene.
Their bodies have been conveyed to Waiyevo District Hospital, where they are awaiting post-mortem examinations.
Meanwhile, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji says an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is currently underway, with a team deployed to conduct initial assessments.
MSAF says it is working closely with Police and other relevant stakeholders and will await preliminary findings.
MSAF is reminding all mariners, boat operators, and vessel owners to exercise extreme caution at sea at all times.
They say this includes maintaining a proper lookout, adhering to safe navigation practices, and ensuring vessels are properly certified and operated in accordance with maritime safety regulations.
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