5 Jan 2011

British High Commission pays tribute to Fiji soldier killed in Afghanistan

8:10 am on 5 January 2011

The British High Commission in Suva has passed on its condolences to the family of a Fiji soldier killed while serving with the British Army in Afghanistan.

Private Joseva Vatubua grew up in Fiji but joined the British army in 2007.

Jo O'Brien reports

"Private Vatubua died in an explosion while targeting enemy positions in Helmand Province with the 5th Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland on New Years Day."

The British High Commissioner in Suva, Mac McLachlan visited Private Vatubua's family yesterday.

Mr McLachlan says the 24 year-old was a great soldier and sportsman who will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.

The date of repatriation of Private Vatubua's body to Fiji is yet to be confirmed.

But the Fiji Village website reports plans are underway for his burial, although his family is still coming to terms with the loss of the soldier, who represented the British army at rugby sevens.