It has been confirmed that former Lieutenant Colonel and ousted minister in the SDL government, Savenaca Draunidalo passed away last night in a boating accident off Yaroi, Lau.

Divisional Crime Officer Southern ASP Tevita Lesu has confirmed that Draunidalo was out fishing with family members and it is believed that due to strong currents, there was some sort of accident in high seas.

Lesu adds that details are still sketchy at the moment and full details will be forthcoming once the Lau authorities confirm the details of the accident.

A post mortem will be carried out later today and the cause of death may be determined by this afternoon.

Draunidalo is survived by his wife and three children.