The Fiji Police Force is urging parents and guardians to engage in open discussions about often taboo topics, emphasizing the necessity for children to receive crucial information from trusted sources.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, expressed this call, pointing out the rising concerns regarding children’s involvement in adult-like behaviors, which have led to an increase in teenage pregnancies and juvenile charges for sexual offenses.
ACP Waqa stated, “The Fiji Police Force shares the concerns highlighted by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health regarding social issues and the engagement of young children in adult-like behaviors. Parents are encouraged to provide ongoing guidance to their children.”
He added, “We must become comfortable discussing subjects deemed taboo, as children will seek information elsewhere if it does not come from parents or guardians.”
The Assistant Commissioner highlighted the critical role of the family structure in addressing the significant challenges facing Fiji’s youth.
“Everything begins at home. All stakeholders stress the necessity of closely monitoring children and their activities to prevent dangerous situations,” he noted.
Waqa mentioned that there is often an increase in reports of missing teenagers during school holidays and the Hibiscus festival, typically attributed to a lack of communication.
“Careful supervision will protect children from engaging with the wrong crowd and encountering situations that could adversely affect their lives and futures,” he added.
With a comprehensive strategy to combat the illicit drug trade gaining traction, Waqa warned that children might become prime targets for drug dealers.
“Concerns about children being exploited to sell drugs must not be overlooked, as dealers often target popular locations frequented by youth,” he cautioned.
“Those involved in drug distribution and sales will go to great lengths to make money and will not hesitate to exploit innocent children.”