An unidentified dead body was discovered floating in the waters off Vonunu, South Vella, Western Province, on Friday around 5pm.

Villagers residing in Vonunu spotted the lifeless body and immediately alerted police officers at the Parakasi Police Station, located at the Vella Development Corporation (VDC) Growth Centre.

The body, which had visible cuts and bruises, was later retrieved by the Gizo Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and transported to Gizo on a stabi boat for further examination.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the deceased or the circumstances surrounding the death.

However, speculation among locals suggests that the victim may have been killed elsewhere and dumped at sea.

The body has been taken to Gizo Hospital for a post-mortem examination, while Gizo Police continue their investigations into the incident.

By Ulutah Gina
Solomon Star, Gizo