The welfare of children must be a top priority to prevent tragic incidents, according to Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew. His comments follow the discovery of a toddler wandering alone along Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu, who was taken to a nearby police station after being found by two women.
ACP Chew stated that law enforcement will take all necessary steps to investigate child neglect cases. Following the incident, police appealed on their official Facebook page for help in locating the toddler’s parents or guardians. The child was later reunited with family after the post gained significant attention online.
In addressing the issue, ACP Chew noted that police will investigate potential negligence and could consider legal charges against parents and guardians. He emphasized that this case is not isolated and expressed deep concern over a pattern of similar incidents. He pointed out past cases involving children who have drowned, been scalded, or injured due to a lack of supervision, all of which he described as preventable tragedies.
He urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, highlighting that children are naturally curious, and accidents can occur in just a few moments of inattention.
In a related appeal, Assistant Minister for Children Sashi Kiran encouraged all parents and guardians to prioritize the welfare of children and remain aware of their whereabouts. This call comes in light of a recent tragic incident in which a one-year-old boy died in Naitonitoni, Navua, after allegedly being struck by a vehicle while wandering away from home.
Kiran acknowledged the challenges faced by nuclear families in securing childcare, especially in urban areas, but stressed the importance of finding appropriate support to prevent neglect. She underlined that such incidents are serious and can lead to the heartbreaking loss of life.