Fiji’s Ministry of Fisheries has issued an advisory that certain species of sharks were into their birthing and mating months.
“The ocean is their home and while we note the increased shark sightings, this does not necessarily mean there is an increase in shark populations in our waters,” a statement from the ministry read.
“These days, more people have access to smartphones, they are able to record and share these events on social media with ease, it doesn’t mean that sharks were never there before.”
The ministry advised divers, fishermen, communities, regular seagoers and the public to take extra precautions on safety.
“Avoid standing and fishing in waist-deep water, especially in areas where sharks are known to breed or where sharks have been recently sighted.
“Avoid diving close to or near areas where sharks are known to breed in or where sharks have been recently sighted.
“Time your dive: avoid diving during dawn and dusk, as this is when sharks are most active hunting for food.
“Dive in a group, this way you have more people looking out for sharks or monitoring sharks’ and divers’ behaviour.”
