Search and rescue for nine missing at sea continues as Fiji authorities cover about 20,000 square nautical miles, using navy and air assets and asking coastal communities to report sightings.
Search and rescue efforts for nine people reported missing at sea continued today, with authorities expanding coverage across multiple areas.
The Republic of Fiji Navy said search teams have now covered roughly 20,000 square nautical miles since operations began late last week.. The work is being coordinated through the Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji, with the Fiji Navy operating alongside the Fiji Police Force and Water Police, as well as regional partners, local communities, and private operators.
Today’s search involved six assets, including the Guardian-class patrol boat RFNS Timo.. A Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8 Poseidon and a Defence-chartered fixed-wing aircraft from Northern Air were also used, along with a helicopter with Fiji Navy air riders.. Two Water Police assets were deployed to help scan likely areas and respond to any leads.
Search sectors included areas towards Vatulele, Beqa waters, Kadavu waters, and Lomaiviti waters, along with further west of Kadavu and up the coral coast.. Teams focused on the last known position, reported to be around Solo Lighthouse north of Kadavu, while also adjusting their sweep based on conditions and information available at the time.
Beyond the operational details, the Navy has also been reaching out to families. Teams visited family members of the missing persons to offer reassurance and to communicate that every available effort is being made to locate their loved ones.
For communities along the coast, the search is not just a government operation.. Fishermen, boat operators, and residents near the shoreline often notice small changes first—new debris drifting with the tide, unusual vessel activity, or anything that looks out of place on the water.. Authorities are asking members of the public to report any sightings, floating debris, or unusual activity at sea, and to share information that could help narrow the search.
The Navy specifically urged villagers and coastal communities to stay vigilant and to pass information through local leadership.. People were asked to route updates through their Turaga ni Koro, or to contact the nearest police station or local authorities.. With limited windows when visibility and sea conditions shift, quick reporting can make a meaningful difference in where responders send the next sweep.
Misryoum understands that coordinating multiple aircraft, patrol boats, and water police units across a wide ocean area is logistically demanding, especially when search guidance comes from family reports and last known locations.. That is why the search is being run through a single coordination hub, so assets can be redirected efficiently as new details emerge.
As the hunt continues, the Fiji Navy also noted its appreciation for support provided by the Royal New Zealand Air Force, national agencies, local communities, hotel operators, and local air providers, as well as all partners assisting the operation.. The message to the public remains consistent: if something is spotted—no matter how minor—authorities want it shared promptly so the search can adjust in real time.