Concerns for children’s safety were highlighted by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew following a report about a toddler found wandering alone on Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu. The child was taken to a police station by two women who discovered him.
In a plea for assistance, the police reached out to the public via their official Facebook page to help identify the child’s parents or guardians. The post gained traction, leading to the toddler being reunited with his family.
ACP Chew emphasized the importance of addressing child neglect incidents and indicated that negligence could result in legal consequences for parents and guardians involved. He noted that similar cases have occurred in the past where children faced severe harm, including drowning and being struck by vehicles, largely due to inadequate supervision.
He urged caregivers to remain vigilant, stating, “They are young, inquisitive, and a few seconds is all it takes for tragedy to occur.”
Assistant Minister for Children, Sashi Kiran, also addressed the situation, urging parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s welfare. She referenced a recent tragic incident in which a one-year-old boy died in Navua after being hit by a vehicle, emphasizing that awareness and proper care are crucial.
Kiran acknowledged the challenges faced by families in urban settings but stressed that finding appropriate support to ensure children’s safety is essential to prevent neglect and potential tragedies.