Tragedy will inevitably strike if the welfare of children is not given priority.
Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew made this remark following a report from yesterday morning about a toddler found wandering alone along Laucala Beach Road in Nasinu. Two women took the child to a nearby police station.
ACP Chew stated that the police would thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding incidents of child neglect. Yesterday morning, the police appealed on their official Facebook page for the public’s help in identifying the toddler’s parents or guardians. The child was later reunited with his family after the post gained widespread attention.
In such situations, the police will also explore possible negligence, which could lead to legal charges against the parents or guardians involved. “This is not the first incident of this nature that we have seen,” noted ACP Chew. He expressed concern, emphasizing that in every case involving a child, they assess elements of negligence, and it has led to charges against parents or guardians in the past.
He cited similar cases where children suffered serious harm due to inadequate supervision, including drownings, scalding incidents, and being struck by vehicles. “These tragedies were unfortunate but preventable if proper supervision of children had been prioritized,” he stated. He added that children are naturally curious and that neglecting to watch them for even a few moments can lead to disaster. The police urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant regarding the children in their care.
Assistant Minister for Children Sashi Kiran, acknowledging the incident, echoed the call for all parents and guardians to prioritize the welfare of their children and be aware of their whereabouts.
Last Monday, a one-year-old boy tragically died in Naitonitoni, Navua, after reportedly being struck by a vehicle driven by a 23-year-old man. The toddler had allegedly left home unnoticed and walked onto the road before the accident occurred.
“The issue of child protection is one we must take seriously,” said Ms. Kiran. She recognized that parents, especially those living in urban areas, often struggle to find childcare but emphasized the importance of seeking the necessary support to prevent neglect. She cautioned that incidents can happen, resulting in the tragic loss of life.