THE 28-year-old wife of a missing fisherman has not lost faith three weeks after he failed to return home.
Mohammed Sabil Saizad 30, was reported missing three weeks ago, along with his younger brother Mohammed Nazil, 20, and their uncle Shaukat Ali, 60.
Farina Farnaz Khan said life had not been the same for her and her six-year-old daughter, but she would continue praying for his return.
She said his disappearance had affected the family which now relied on food from generous neighbours.
"My husband is the sole breadwinner. I am worried about the welfare of my family especially for my daughter who is now sickly," she said.
The missing fishermen were last seen on July 26 on their way to the Mamanuca Group.
Extensive search by family members and police proved futile with no signs of the fishermen or the boat.
"We even hired a sea plane to assist us in the search but nothing," said Mrs Khan.
"I am hopeful that my husband is still alive and he will return home to take care of me and our only daughter."
"My mother-in-law is also staying with us and we have been having sleepless nights. But we haven't lost hope," she said.
Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro confirmed the search for the missing fishermen was continuing.
She said Police had sought the assistance of the New Zealand Air Force and had combed the Mamanuca Group and surrounding places.
"We are doing our best in trying to locate the missing trio but to no avail," she said.
"The Navy Search and Rescue together with the New Zealand Air Force conducted search by sea and air but could not locate the missing boat. The area covered was from the Kadavu waters right up to the Yasawas while the New Zealand force covered it right to Tonga.
"Members of the public are requested to keep a look-out on the missing fishermen," Ms Naisoro said