A 22 year old USP student of Labasa has drowned while trying to cross the flooded Qawa river yesterday afternoon.

Labasa Police have confirmed that the student was catching crabs with his friend when they decided to swim across the river.

His friend managed to cross the river while he was swept away by strong currents.

A search was conducted yesterday afternoon and this morning with negative results.

The drowning toll now stands at 14 compared to 9 during the same period last year.