Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew is urging the public to prioritize their safety while traveling during the festive season. His plea comes amid a worrying trend of missing person reports that have surged in recent months.
Commissioner Chew emphasized that these reports typically emerge only after concerned family members notify authorities when someone has not returned home for over a day. He highlighted the importance of communication, urging individuals to keep their families informed about their whereabouts and travel plans.
“Families become anxious when loved ones do not come home, prompting them to report the situation to us,” Commissioner Chew explained. “While we initiate search efforts, we often discover that the missing person did not inform their relatives about their plans.”
He also noted that many of those reported missing are teenagers aged between 16 and 18 years old. Additionally, the Commissioner mentioned the challenges police face when intervening in these situations, as many young individuals assert their rights, occasionally filming police operations.
“In such instances, we respect an individual’s rights, but we urge everyone to consider their safety and remain aware of their surroundings,” Chew cautioned. “Anyone can find themselves in dangerous situations, regardless of their age.”
Assistant Police Operations Commissioner Livai Driu echoed these sentiments, stating that while missing person cases were infrequent in the past, they are now a significant focus for the police. “We take these incidents seriously and are directing our investigators to devote more effort to resolving these cases,” he reassured.
In light of these concerns, it is clear that enhancing communication between family members can play a critical role in preventing such incidents. By staying connected and attentive, families can help ensure the safety of their loved ones during this festive season.
It is important to remember that taking proactive steps, such as informing relatives of travel plans, can significantly enhance personal safety and minimize the chances of disappearing without a trace.
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