A 16-year-old boy from Yanuya Island in the Mamanucas died instantly when he was struck by lightning in the waters between Monu Island and Yanuya Island in the Malolo Group.

He was in a boat returning from a picnic around 5pm last Saturday.

The identity of the student has been withheld, respecting the family’s privacy in their time of grief. His body now rests at the Lautoka Hospital mortuary, where it awaits the necessary procedures, including a Post Mortem examination.

As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident, local authorities are urging residents and visitors alike to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines, particularly during adverse weather conditions.