The Republic of Fiji Navy says the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Fiji has activated a search operation for an overdue boat carrying six people.
The Navy says they received reports that the vessel had departed Namuka Island at 10am yesterday bound for Fulaga Island, but had failed to arrive at its destination.
They say according to initial reports, three fibreglass boats departed Namuka Island yesterday morning.
The Navy says two arrived safely in Fulaga, while the third remains overdue.
They say the missing vessel is described as a white half-cabin fibreglass boat powered by a 40-horsepower outboard engine.
They say relevant authorities, mariners and nearby communities have been alerted, and search efforts are ongoing. However, adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and rough to very rough seas, are hampering the operation.
The Navy is urging mariners travelling between Namuka, Fulaga and the surrounding waters to maintain a vigilant lookout for the missing white half-cabin fibreglass boat and its occupants.
Anyone with information or who sights the vessel is requested to contact the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji immediately by calling the toll-free number 1539 or reporting it to the nearest Police Station.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is also reminding all mariners to closely monitor official weather forecasts and marine warnings.
Small-boat operators are strongly advised not to travel during adverse weather, rough seas or whenever conditions are considered unsafe.
MSAF says that before heading to sea, operators should ensure their vessels are seaworthy and equipped with sufficient fuel, lifejackets, reliable communication equipment and other essential safety gear.
The search operation remains active, and further updates will be released as confirmed information becomes available.
