90 Suicide Cases as of November 11, 97 Attempted
Fiji Police made a conscious effort to deliver strong messages on suicide prevention at prizegiving ceremonies in Suva on Tuesday.
In anticipation of the upcoming school holidays, Commissioner of Police Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho addressed students at the Suva Muslim College Prize Giving ceremony.
He said it was ‘agonising’ to receive recent reports of young children resorting to drastic measures to end their time on earth.
“Students – I specifically chose to speak on the subject of suicide, because you are about to embark on your school holidays, and this is a time where temptation is rife,” he said.
“You are all familiar with situations where students have been the subject of public ridicule and condemned when something they have done is posted and shared on social media.”
Commissioner Qiliho confirmed Fiji had recorded 90 cases of suicides and 97 cases of attempted suicide said as of 11 November 2017.
Of these reported cases, eight suicide and 12 attempted suicide cases involved children under the age of 17.
Commissioner Qiliho cited family arguments, relationship issues, restrictions from social media, bullying and self-disappointment as some of the reasons causing young people to commit suicide.
“During our days we didn’t have to worry about cyber bullying, which I can say is becoming a real concern for the Fiji Police Force,” he said.
Commissioner Qiliho encourages students to re-evaluate who they choose to spend their time with over the upcoming summer holidays.
“Over the next few weeks, how and who you choose to spend your time with, can either empower you or will be detrimental to your wellbeing, so think carefully, before being asked to do something,” he said.
“Always weigh out the pros and cons because if it’s not worth the risk, don’t get involved.”
Commissioner Qiliho reminded students to think about the sacrifices their parents and guardians have made and to keep in mind that family, friends and the Police are their to support their future.
“For those of you who sat for external examinations and are waiting for your results, remember, there are so many options available if you don’t achieve the desired results,” he said.
“That is why the Fijian Government has opened up so many doors because they know that not everyone will excel academically. So please use the available opportunities and never be afraid to ask for help.”
In addressing Gospel High students at the school’s prizegiving ceremony yesterday, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Richard Raju echoed the Police Commissioner’s words.
“Do not indulge your mind with unnecessary thoughts that will feed your mind with bad thoughts and make you do things which you will regret in your life,” he said.
“Nearly every month, the Police reports of students being involved in activities that are not required of them.”
Assistant Superintendent Raju reminded students that there is always another chance to achieve their goals.
Edited by Ranoba Baoa
