The Acting Police Commissioner, Juki Fong Chew, has urged the public to exercise caution regarding their safety while traveling during the festive season. His call comes in light of a notable rise in the number of reported missing persons over the past few months.
Commissioner Chew emphasized that reports of missing individuals typically arise only after family members realize someone has been missing for more than a day. He underscored the importance of clear communication, stating that individuals should inform their families of their whereabouts and expected return times. “When people fail to communicate, families become anxious and start filing missing persons reports. During our search efforts, we often discover that the individual did not inform their relatives,” he explained.
He noted that many of the missing individuals tend to be between the ages of 16 and 18, and in several instances, the police have found themselves limited in their ability to intervene due to individuals asserting their rights. “While we respect everyone’s rights, it’s important for people to remain aware of their surroundings and prioritize their safety, as anything can happen to anyone, regardless of age,” he said.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, echoed these concerns, highlighting that the frequency of missing persons cases has increased, prompting law enforcement to intensify their efforts in dealing with such incidents. “We are taking these cases seriously and directing our investigators to devote more resources to finding missing individuals,” he affirmed.
To sum up, as the festive season approaches, the plea from the police for individuals to stay vigilant and maintain communication with their families serves as an essential reminder of the importance of safety and awareness in today’s world. The proactive stance of the police to address this worrying trend is a hopeful sign that community safety remains a priority, making for a potentially safer holiday experience.
As the community comes together to celebrate, it is crucial for everyone to remain aware and to prioritize their connections with family, ensuring that loved ones know their whereabouts for peace of mind.
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