The Acting Police Commissioner, Juki Fong Chew, is urging the public to stay vigilant about their safety while traveling during the festive season. His appeal comes in light of a concerning rise in reports of missing persons over recent months.
Commissioner Chew highlighted that police typically receive reports of missing individuals only after family members have not heard from them for over a day. He stressed the importance of communication, urging people to keep their families informed about their whereabouts and the duration of their outings. “Families experience anxiety when there is a lack of communication and a loved one does not return home,” Mr. Chew noted, explaining that many missing persons cases could be avoided with better communication.
He also pointed out that many of those reported missing are teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18, and in several instances, the police face challenges in intervening when young individuals assert their rights. “While we respect individual rights, it is crucial to prioritize safety and awareness of one’s surroundings,” he added, emphasizing that anyone could find themselves in a vulnerable situation, regardless of age.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, echoed these sentiments, indicating that the number of missing persons cases had escalated, prompting the police to make this issue a top priority. “We are approaching these investigations with seriousness and dedicating our resources to address them,” ACPO Driu affirmed.
This call to action serves as a vital reminder for communities to prioritize safety, especially during busy festive times when travel is more frequent. Encouraging open lines of communication among family members can foster a sense of security and reassurance for everyone involved.
In summary, the police are taking significant strides to address the increasing issue of missing persons, and a community-centric approach can further enhance safety during this period.
Leave a comment