The Fiji Police Force is urging parents and guardians to engage in open discussions about sensitive topics, emphasizing the necessity for children to receive important information from trusted figures.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, highlighted growing worries about children’s involvement in adult-like behaviors, which has led to rising rates of teenage pregnancies and minors facing charges related to sexual offenses.
ACP Waqa stated that the Fiji Police shares the concerns expressed by both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health regarding social issues affecting young people, encouraging parents to provide continuous guidance to their children.
He emphasized the need for families to address subjects often viewed as taboo, warning that if children do not hear about these matters from their parents or guardians, they may seek information from unreliable sources.
The ACP reiterated the vital role of family in confronting key issues facing the youth in Fiji. He mentioned that effective communication and supervision at home is crucial to monitor children’s activities and prevent unfavorable situations.
He noted an increase in reports of missing teenagers typically occurs during school holidays and the Hibiscus festival, often linked to a breakdown in communication between parents and children.
“Close supervision is essential to protect children from negative influences and situations that could affect their lives and future,” he added.
As efforts to combat drug trafficking ramp up, ACP Waqa expressed concerns that children are increasingly being targeted by dealers. He cautioned that the issue of minors being exploited to distribute drugs must be taken seriously, as dealers often frequent places popular among young people.
“Dealers will go to great lengths to make money and will not hesitate to involve innocent children in their operations,” he remarked.