Parents Urged to Engage: A Call to Protect Our Youth

The Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, has urged parents to engage in conversations with their children about the potential consequences of their actions before law enforcement gets involved. This call to action follows an incident where police dispersed a group of young individuals in the Mead Road housing area, who had gathered with intentions of causing trouble.

Commissioner Tudravu emphasized that parents should not assume that their children’s youth will mitigate any legal consequences. He firmly stated, “Don’t test the law thinking that their young age will be a factor in softening our approach because it will not happen under my watch.” The Commissioner expressed a commitment to not entertain any pleas from parents or guardians once their children have crossed legal boundaries.

To proactively address the issue, officers from the Southern Division have been visiting schools and collaborating with the Public Rental Board, while also holding discussions with local youths. The support of community leaders, including Reverend Tevita Vuniwaqa from the Nabua Methodist Church Circuit, has been acknowledged, as he plans to convene a meeting with youths in the area.

Currently, eight students are being questioned in relation to a series of disturbances, which Commissioner Tudravu assures are not spontaneous but rather the result of underlying issues, including a recent fight between two students. He calls for collective community intervention to guide the youth away from a path they may later regret.

The Southern Division police are continuing their investigation to ensure accountability among those involved in the disturbances. The proactive approach by the police, schools, and community leaders reflects a growing recognition that addressing issues early can prevent escalation and foster a safer environment for young people.

In summary, the situation highlights the importance of community engagement and the need for proactive measures to support youth, which can ultimately lead to a more positive and safe environment for all.