A 1-year-old child is alleged to be the country’s latest drowning victim.

Divisional Police Commander West SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa, says the victim who is from Koroboya Village, was found by a relative floating in the Koroboya River a few meters from their home.

SSP Vaisewa adds the victim was rushed to the Ba Aspen Hospital where she was unfortunately pronounced dead on arrival.

The national drowning death toll currently stands at 36 compared to 40 for the same period last year.

Parents and guardians are again reminded to be vigilant in monitoring their children’s movements.

Vaisewa says this is yet another unfortunate accident that could have been avoided.

He calls on parents to ensure the strict supervision of children and be alert to the potential drowning hazards in and around homes.