Banaban Student 12 drowns Buakonikai, Rabi

[Stacey King]

FIJI TIME ONLINE  Luke Rawalai Monday, January 07, 2013

A FAMILY on Rabi Island is mourning for their son who drowned at the Kamakau River last Saturday, becoming the country's first drowning victim for 2013.

Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro confirmed the incident occurred at 11am last Saturday at Bokanikai Village, Rabi when the 12-year-old was swept away by strong currents while swimming in the Kamakau River.

"The deceased's father was informed of the tragic incident by another 12-year-old who told him that his son was swept away by strong currents after jumping into the Kamakau River," Ms Naisoro said.

"His father managed to retrieve his son's body but could not revive him after several attempts."

"A post mortem is expected to be conducted soon as the body is at the Savusavu Hospital," she said.

Ms Naisoro said for the same period last year there were already two drowning cases recorded.

She once again sounded advice to parents and guardians regarding the safety of children during the holidays. "As children are spending what's left of their school holidays at home, we are once again pleading with parents and guardians to closely monitor their movements and whereabouts at all times," said Ms Naisoro.

"It is therefore advisable to accompany your children if they are intending to go swimming irrespective of whether it's in a group. It's better to be safe at all times and be with your children, because as an adult you would be in a better position to make decisions for the sake of safety.

"It is indeed unfortunate that a child has once again lost his life as a result of drowning in spite of all the awareness and advice issued for their safety around water sources," she said

[Ruteta Betarim Rimon]

Belated condolences to the family....even-though our loved ones leave us so suddenly but the love for them will always remain in our hearts forever..but please ALWAYS keep an eye on your children.God bless.

[Takaniko Kaitetara Ruabete]

Thank you Semi. Memories are all we have at these times but they will eventually fade out over time. We are so gratefull that God's love is everlasting and when those memories finally fade out the space will not be left void but filled with the love of Jesus. Within a very short space of time this month four Banabans left us for good...three of them quite young. Life may seem long but it's just like a mist that appears and then fade away so fast. Reminds us to examine our life very closely and to cherish those of our children and grandchildren and do our best to assist them grow old and giving them the honour of burying us, not us burying them so young...God bless.

[Terenga. Sukong]

ai kawara naba.....

[Semi Meo]

..Oh my God…only 12 years old… Our deepest condolence, sympathy and prayers for the family and Rabi community. His dad should be proud as he did his very best ;a loving dedicated dad could do in the circumstances.

Best we celebrate the 12 years the young boy spent in our midst.