The Fiji Police Force is urging parents and guardians to engage in open discussions about topics often deemed taboo, as it is crucial for children to receive important information from trusted individuals.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime Mesake Waqa emphasized this plea, highlighting rising worries over children’s involvement in adult-like behaviors which have led to increased teenage pregnancies and juveniles facing sexual offense charges.
ACP Waqa stated, “The Fiji Police Force shares concerns raised by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health regarding social issues and the participation of young children in adult-like behavior. Parents are encouraged to continually counsel their children.”
He underscored the necessity of comfortable communication about sensitive subjects, noting that if these discussions do not occur within the home, children may seek out information elsewhere.
The importance of familial support in addressing significant challenges facing Fiji’s youth was also highlighted by ACP Waqa. He remarked, “Everything begins at home. There has been consistent messaging from all stakeholders regarding the need to closely monitor children and their activities to prevent regrettable situations.”
He pointed out that police often observe an increase in reports of missing teens during school holidays and the Hibiscus festival, attributing this trend to a lack of communication.
“Strict supervision will protect children from falling in with the wrong crowd and encountering circumstances that could adversely affect their lives and futures,” he stated.
With the ongoing comprehensive strategies against the illicit drug trade, ACP Waqa warned that children may become prime targets for dealers.
“Concerns about children being exploited to sell drugs must be taken seriously, as dealers are likely to target popular locations frequented by youths,” he cautioned.
“Individuals involved in drug distribution and sales will go to great lengths for profit, showing little regard for the welfare of innocent children.”