Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has urged the public to exercise caution regarding their safety while traveling during the festive season. His plea comes in light of a concerning rise in reports of missing persons over recent months.
Commissioner Chew noted that authorities typically receive reports of missing individuals only after family members have been unable to reach them for over a day. He emphasized the importance of communication, encouraging people to keep their families informed about their whereabouts and travel plans.
“Families experience distress when loved ones do not return home, leading to reports being filed. During our search efforts, we often find out that the individual had not updated their family about their location,” he explained. Chew highlighted the considerable resources devoted to these search operations, insisting that the police remain committed to ensuring the safety of the community.
He specifically pointed out that a significant number of those reported missing are teenagers aged between 16 and 18 years. In many situations, the police have faced challenges in intervening due to the individuals asserting their rights.
Chew further advised on the importance of thinking about personal security, stating, “Anything can happen to anyone, regardless of age.”
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu echoed Chew’s concerns, acknowledging that the incidence of missing persons cases has increased and detailing the police’s commitment to addressing these cases with greater seriousness and thoroughness.
In light of these developments, it is essential for communities to foster open communication within families and to remain vigilant about personal safety. This festive period can be a time of joy, and with increased awareness and proactive measures, it can also be a safe one.
As a community, fostering safe practices and open lines of communication can help mitigate the risks of going missing, allowing more families to enjoy the festivities with peace of mind.
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