A 26-year-old waitress has been charged with a serious offense after allegedly giving alcohol to her nearly two-year-old nephew during a drinking party in Tailevu. The incident has drawn attention after she shared an image on social media depicting her nephew holding a glass of beer.
The waitress was apprehended by authorities on January 25, 2025, during an interview process and was released shortly thereafter. However, she now faces legal repercussions for violating Section 59 of the Juveniles Act, 1973, which prohibits supplying intoxicating liquor to minors.
Currently, she remains in police custody and is expected to appear at the Nausori Magistrates Court later today. This incident has raised significant concern among community leaders and child protection advocates. Both the Fiji Police Force and the Ministry for Women, Children, and Social Protection have emphasized the importance of adults ensuring the safety and welfare of children, as exposing minors to alcohol can have serious legal consequences.
Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, expressed her dismay regarding this violation of children’s rights and urged the community to prioritize reporting any harmful behavior rather than sharing it online. This unfortunate situation not only serves as a reminder of the need for responsible adult behavior but also presents an important opportunity for community education regarding alcohol’s effects and the necessity of proper supervision of children.
Through fostering dialogue about the risks associated with alcohol, there is hope for building a more protective environment for children, transforming distressing circumstances into valuable educational moments for families. Such proactive measures can contribute significantly to the well-being of future generations, ensuring that every child can grow up in a safer and more nurturing atmosphere.
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