There is a growing concern regarding the welfare of children, as highlighted by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew following the case of a toddler found wandering alone on Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu. Two women discovered the child and brought him to a local police station. In response, the police launched an appeal on social media for information about the toddler’s parents or guardians, which quickly led to a reunion.
ACP Chew emphasized the need to investigate cases of child neglect thoroughly and highlighted that legal actions could arise from instances of negligence by parents or guardians. He noted that this incident is not isolated, citing previous troubling cases where children have faced severe harm, including drowning and vehicle accidents, all attributed to insufficient supervision.
Chew urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, asserting that even a momentary lapse can have tragic consequences for inquisitive young children.
In a related appeal, Assistant Minister for Children Sashi Kiran stressed the importance of prioritizing children’s welfare. She acknowledged the challenges faced by nuclear families in urban areas regarding childcare but reminded them of the vital need to avoid neglect, especially in light of a tragic incident last week where a one-year-old boy died after being hit by a vehicle when he wandered onto the road unnoticed.
Kiran emphasized that the issue of child protection warrants serious consideration, as incidents can lead to devastating outcomes.