Six missing mariners rescued in Lau

A coordinated search and rescue operation has successfully located and recovered six mariners who went missing in Fiji's Lau Group. The group departed from Namuka Island on August 6, bound for Fulaga, but failed to reach their destination, prompting an extensive search effort.

The Royal New Zealand Air Force played a crucial role when its P-8 Poseidon aircraft spotted the overdue vessel. The aircraft initially used radar but switched to a visual search, locating the boat approximately 14.6 nautical miles southwest of Vanuavatu just before nightfall. Following this discovery, the Fiji Navy's RFNS Savenaca was immediately diverted to the location.

In challenging weather conditions, the Fiji Navy vessel carried out the rescue. All six survivors were brought safely to Suva, where they are undergoing medical assessments before being reunited with their families. The Fiji Navy emphasized that this operation underscores the vital importance of regional cooperation and well-coordinated search-and-rescue capabilities in saving lives throughout the Pacific region.

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The Fiji Navy says the operation highlights the critical role of regional cooperation and coordinated search-and-rescue efforts in saving lives across the Pacific.