Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection is deeply concerned about the safety and wellbeing of children, particularly those under the age of 16, who are found loitering unsupervised by a legal guardian in public spaces after dark.
"Leaving children unattended during these hours exposes them to serious risks, including drug use, HIV infection, exploitation, abuse, robbery, road accidents, and other forms of harm," says the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran.
To address this growing concern, the Ministry, in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, will be conducting regular patrols and sweeps in identified hotspots during the festive season. Child Welfare Officers, supported by Labour officers, will be on the ground to identify at-risk children, provide socio-economic support to families where needed, and take appropriate welfare-based action in accordance with the Child Care and Protection Act.
Parents and guardians are reminded not to leave children under 16 years of age unsupervised in public spaces after dark.
Children found loitering unsupervised will be taken to the nearest Police Station, and Child Welfare Officers will be immediately contacted to counsel the children and their families. Repeat incidents of child neglect may result in legal action to reinforce parental responsibility.
Kiran calls on parents, gurdians, elders and Members of the public to support efforts to safeguard children during the festive season.
For immediate response and reporting of unsupervised children, members of the public are requested to contact the toll-free Child Help Line 1325.
The Ministry wishes to thank the Fiji Police Force and all frontline officers for their dedication and support in keeping our children safe.
We urge the community to join us in ensuring a safe, secure, and joyful festive season for all children.