A recent series of tragic drowning incidents has underscored the critical importance of ocean safety in Samoa. 

Last week, a coordinated rescue effort involving the Police's rescue team and the Fire and Emergency Service Authority (F.E.S.A.) was launched to recover the body of a 28-year-old man from Lano, Savai'i. 

The man, who had gone fishing, was reported missing after he failed to return to shore.

The search and recovery mission, which began after the man's family raised the alarm, concluded successfully with the recovery of his body. 

Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo confirmed to the Samoa Observer that the young man's body was found. He had been missing since Wednesday.

This recent incident follows another tragic event in Savai'i from two weeks prior. In Gatavai, a 33-year-old man also went missing after setting out to fish. 

Despite extensive efforts by rescue teams and volunteers, his body has yet to be recovered. 

It is feared that the strong ocean currents may have carried him away, complicating the search and recovery efforts.

The search and rescue mission was called off after they could not recover the body of the 33-year-old from Gataivai. 

In light of these tragedies, Commissioner Auapa'au has issued a stark reminder to the community about the importance of adhering to safety measures when venturing into the ocean. 

He emphasised the need for individuals to avoid fishing or engaging in other maritime activities during adverse weather conditions to mitigate the risk of drowning.

The community is urged to take heed of weather warnings and exercise caution, particularly in challenging sea conditions.