Girl, 6, survives drowning incident

Afamily from Tabiang Village on Rabi Island in Cakaudrove Province were relieved after their missing loved ones and a casket were found on Thursday.

The family, travelling in two fibre boats, left Karoko for Rabi Island around 7pm on Thursday night.

Rabi Island Council administrator, Karia Christopher, confirmed that one boat was carrying a few people including a six-year-old girl and a casket with a 55-year-old deceased man inside.

“The family encountered rough seas and this boat capsized. The casket went missing and also a child who was a passenger,” Mr Christopher said.

Police said the boat capsized around 8.30pm.

While some managed to swim ashore and others rescued by those in a second boat, the little girl was unaccounted for.

A Police officer residing in Karoko Village led the search for the little girl with the help of villagers, while other officers based at the Tukavesi Police Station joined the search efforts later.

It wasn’t until 11pm that they found the capsized boat which was stuck on a reef and found the little girl clinging on to the coffin. She was rushed to the Tukavesi Health Centre where she received treatment and was sent home. Officers who were part of the search said it was fortunate that no other life was lost and little girl’s bravery would not be forgotten.

Investigations will also look into the safety aspects of the incident.

Mr Christopher confirmed that the family managed to reach home safely and conducted the funeral yesterday.