Concerns over child safety have been raised following a recent incident where a toddler was found wandering alone along Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu. Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew stated that it is vital to prioritize children’s welfare to prevent tragedies. The toddler was brought to a nearby police station after being discovered by two women, and authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s neglect.
The police have called on the public to help identify the child’s parents or guardians, and after the incident was shared on social media, the toddler was successfully reunited with his family. ACP Chew mentioned that authorities are considering possible negligence charges against the child’s caretakers, as previous incidents have shown that lack of supervision can lead to tragic outcomes.
“We have seen multiple cases where children have faced harm due to neglect, such as drownings or severe injuries,” ACP Chew noted. He emphasized the need for parents and guardians to remain vigilant, as children are naturally curious and can easily find themselves in dangerous situations in just a few moments of inattention.
In a related statement, Assistant Minister for Children Sashi Kiran also called on parents and guardians to take children’s safety seriously. This comes after a one-year-old boy tragically lost his life last week in Navua after being struck by a vehicle. Reports indicated that the child had left home without being noticed and wandered onto the road.
Ms. Kiran highlighted the challenges for nuclear families in urban areas regarding child care but underscored the importance of finding appropriate support to prevent neglect and ensure children’s safety. She stressed that the consequences of neglect can be severe, and every effort should be made to keep children safe.