Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, has issued a critical reminder to parents about the importance of vigilance in caring for their children during the school break. This comes in light of a tragic incident where a five-year-old girl from Naituvatuvatu Village in Wainibuka, Tailevu, was swept away by strong currents while attempting to cross the Waisomi River on Saturday.
The young child, accompanied by seven other children and her 32-year-old aunt after gathering edible lady fern (Ota), fell victim to the strong river currents. Efforts were made to recover her, with three police officers assisting in the search after the matter was reported by the village headman. Unfortunately, search operations were halted due to darkness and poor weather conditions, but they resumed the following day, resulting in the recovery of the girl’s body.
ACPO Driu emphasized the need for parents to be more attentive during the school holidays, advising them to spend additional time with their children and to avoid large gatherings and festivities that could distract from their supervision.
This incident serves as a heart-wrenching reminder of the natural dangers present in many communities, especially during the school break. It’s an opportunity for parents and guardians to reflect on the safety and well-being of their children.
In the face of such tragedy, it’s crucial to foster stronger family bonds during holidays, ensuring children are safe and engaged in supervised activities. Prioritizing open communication about safety can also empower children with the knowledge they need to navigate potential hazards responsibly.
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