Concerns over child safety have been raised following a recent incident in which a toddler was discovered wandering alone near 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 found by two women who took him to a nearby police station. The police appealed to the public via social media to help identify the child’s parents or guardians. Fortunately, the toddler was reunited with his family after the post gained traction online.
Commissioner Chew highlighted the police’s commitment to investigating all cases of child neglect thoroughly. He noted that this is not an isolated incident, expressing deep concern as cases of child neglect often lead to serious consequences. He mentioned instances in the past where children have suffered fatal accidents due to lack of supervision.
He urged parents and guardians to be vigilant, pointing out that even a moment of inattention could lead to tragedy. “Children are curious, and it only takes seconds for something unfortunate to occur,” he said.
In a related appeal, Assistant Minister for Children Sashi Kiran urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children’s safety. She referenced a recent incident involving a one-year-old boy who died after being struck by a vehicle, stressing the need for better child protection measures.
Kiran encouraged parents, particularly those living in urban areas, to seek appropriate childcare support to prevent similar incidents. She reiterated the importance of prioritizing children’s welfare to avoid the heartbreaking loss of young lives.