Five rescued after overdue boat located off Vatulele

A joint rescue operation successfully located and rescued five individuals, including a child, whose boat went overdue while traveling between Korolevu and Vatulele. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji (JRCC Fiji) initiated the search last night after the vessel failed to reach its destination.

The Republic of Fiji Navy deployed the RFNS Savenaca early this morning. A New Zealand Defence Force surveillance aircraft and two domestic aircraft carrying Navy personnel also supported the search efforts. The overdue boat was found in rough seas, and all five occupants were brought to safety.

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The Republic of Fiji Navy says the successful rescue highlights the importance of coordinated efforts between JRCC Fiji, JRCC New Zealand, the Navy and other deployed search and rescue teams.

The RFNS Savenaca is now en route to return the rescued individuals to shore. The New Zealand aircraft was also assisting a separate search and rescue operation for an overdue boat in Kiribati, coordinated by JRCC Fiji.

The successful rescue underscores the importance of coordinated efforts between JRCC Fiji, JRCC New Zealand, the Navy, and other search and rescue teams. Authorities are reiterating their plea to mariners, especially small boat operators, to avoid non-essential travel during bad weather and to always prioritize safety.

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Authorities are again urging mariners, particularly small boat operators, to avoid unnecessary sea travel during adverse weather conditions and to prioritise safety at all times.