The Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, has emphasized the critical need to prioritize the welfare of children to prevent tragic incidents. His remarks follow a report of a toddler found wandering alone along Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu, who was later taken to a police station by two concerned women.
In a social media appeal, the police requested assistance in identifying the child’s parents or guardians. The toddler was successfully reunited with his family after the appeal gained traction online. Commissioner Chew stated that law enforcement would thoroughly investigate any cases of child neglect and that parents and guardians may face legal consequences in such situations.
“This is not the first incident of its kind we’ve encountered,” ACP Chew noted. “It is concerning, and in every case involving a child, we examine potential negligence. There have been previous instances where parents and guardians have been charged.”
He highlighted similar unfortunate cases where children faced severe harm due to a lack of supervision, including drownings and accidents. “These tragedies could have been avoided if child supervision was prioritized,” he added. He urged parents and guardians to be especially watchful over young children.
Assistant Minister for Children, Sashi Kiran, voiced her concerns about child safety, echoing the call for parents and guardians to be attentive and aware of their children’s whereabouts. She referenced a recent incident where a one-year-old boy in Naitonitoni, Navua, was killed after allegedly walking onto the road unnoticed and being struck by a vehicle.
“The issue of child protection demands serious consideration,” Ms. Kiran said. “While we recognize that many parents, particularly in urban areas, struggle with finding childcare, it is essential to seek proper support to prevent neglect. Every incident has the potential to result in a life being lost.”