35-year-old man missing in waters between Laucala Island and Taveuni

A 35-year-old man is missing in waters between Laucala Island and Taveuni following an alleged dispute out at sea on Friday afternoon.

Police say the victim was travelling with two others, when an argument between the group and a 48-year-old man who was fishing on another boat.

They say the 48-year-old man allegedly hit the victim with a stick, whereby he fell unconscious, and the suspect then deliberately bumped their boat, causing the victim to fall overboard.

Members of the community assisted in the search efforts, and divers from Matagi Island were also deployed, however, last night’s search have been negative.

Investigations and search efforts continue.