The Fiji Police Force is urging parents and guardians to engage in conversations about often taboo subjects, as children need to receive crucial information from trusted adults.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime Mesake Waqa made this appeal amid rising concerns regarding children’s involvement in activities typically associated with adults, which has led to an increase in teenage pregnancies and juveniles being charged with sexual offenses.
ACP Waqa stated, “The Fiji Police Force shares the worries raised by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health regarding societal issues and the engagement of young children in adult-like behavior, and we encourage parents to provide ongoing guidance to their children.”
He emphasized that discussions surrounding sensitive topics must take place within the family, as children may seek information elsewhere if it is not provided by their parents or guardians.
“Everything begins at home,” he underscored, noting that all stakeholders have consistently communicated the necessity of closely monitoring children’s activities to prevent regrettable situations.
ACP Waqa pointed out that the police often observe a surge in reports of missing teenagers during school holidays and the Hibiscus festival, which he attributes to a lack of communication between parents and their children.
“Careful supervision can protect children from associating with the wrong crowd and getting involved in situations that could negatively affect their lives and futures,” he added.
As efforts to combat the illicit drug trade gain momentum, ACP Waqa warned that children could become prime targets for dealers. “Concerns regarding the involvement of children in drug distribution should be taken seriously, as dealers often focus on popular hangout spots frequented by young people.”
“Those who sell drugs will go to great lengths to profit and will not hesitate to exploit innocent children,” he cautioned.