Concerns over child safety have been raised following an incident where a toddler was found wandering alone on Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu. Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew responded to the situation, emphasizing the need to prioritize children’s welfare to prevent tragedies. The toddler was taken to a police station by two women who discovered him alone, and a plea on the police’s official Facebook page helped reunite the child with his family after the post gained attention.
ACP Chew stated that police are committed to investigating cases of child neglect and may pursue legal action against parents or guardians in such situations. He noted that this is not an isolated incident, highlighting that previous cases involving child neglect have resulted in charges against caregivers. He expressed concern over recurring incidents where children have faced fatal accidents due to a lack of supervision.
Assistant Minister for Children Sashi Kiran echoed these sentiments, urging parents and guardians to be vigilant and aware of their children’s whereabouts. Her comments followed the tragic death of a one-year-old boy in Navua after he was allegedly hit by a vehicle while wandering away from home unnoticed.
Kiran acknowledged the challenges faced by parents, particularly in urban areas, but stressed the importance of seeking support to prevent neglect and ensure child safety.