The Police Commanding Officer in the Central Division, Tevita Waqabaca has warned parents to ensure their children reach school and do not divert to other areas in the city.
Mr Waqabaca was speaking on FBC’s Radio Fiji One this morning on a talkback show organised by the Ministry of Information.
“We are concerned with the increase in incidents of students roaming the city and crowding internet cafes during school hours,” Mr Waqabaca said.
Most of these students change their uniforms after reaching Suva City.
Whenever they come across students in such areas of the city, Mr Waqabaca said Police would have to contact their parents or the school office directly.
“I urge parents to make sure their children are going straight to school instead of diverting to other unnecessary areas,” Mr Waqabaca said.
The increase in incidences of abuse of students in the Central Division should be a lesson to parents to know the whereabouts of their children.
“Parents should have family time at home and talk to their children and warn them of the temptations that are around us in this day and age,” Mr Waqabaca said.
“This will make the work of police easier. There was a case where a Form Three student was abused in a Suva motel after being lured for money and drinks by adults who are supposed to be role models.”
People should make use of the Police Hotline if they find students in the wrong places during school hours.
Mr Waqabaca said police in the Central Division had been meeting with communities in Vatuwaqa, Toorak and Flagstaff to advise them on these issues regarding students.
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