An ongoing investigation by Lautoka Police is focusing on negligence following a concerning incident where a 3-month-old baby was discovered alone in a parked car. The alarming situation was reported by a vigilant member of the public who saw the sleeping infant inside a vehicle just a short distance from a supermarket.
When the police arrived, the child’s parents returned to the car as officers were working to gather information regarding the ownership of the vehicle. The parents were subsequently issued a warning, and authorities have initiated further investigations into the matter.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu expressed deep concern regarding the incident, labeling it “extremely troubling.” He urged parents and guardians to prioritize the safety and welfare of their children at all times. The Fiji Police Force commended the effort of the concerned citizen whose actions facilitated the prompt response that potentially safeguarded the child’s well-being.
This case echoes similar recent incidents, where the safety of children was jeopardized due to negligence. In those instances, such as a recent case involving a toddler who was found wandering alone near Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew emphasized the critical nature of prioritizing child welfare. With previous cases leading to tragic outcomes from lack of supervision, he reiterated the importance of vigilance and proper oversight by caregivers.
The Assistant Minister for Children, Sashi Kiran, has also called for mindful parenting, particularly highlighting the challenges working parents face in urban settings. She stressed the imperative of ensuring proper supervision to prevent similar instances of neglect.
In light of these incidents, there is hope that increased awareness and education about child safety can lead to better protective measures and prevent tragedies from occurring in the future. Community vigilance, as demonstrated by the concerned citizen in Lautoka, plays a crucial role in ensuring children’s safety.
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