The number of missing per­son reports has become a major concern for Police.

Police Chief of Operations, As­sistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Rusiate Tudravu, said they receive at least two missing per­son reports on a weekly basis.

However, ACP Tudravu said in most cases, the missing person cases were the result of miscom­munication.

And while the missing persons were reported to return home safely, Police have had to dedicate a lot time and resources looking for them.

“The concerns on missing per­son reports is still a major area of focus for us, particularly when young children are reported miss­ing,” ACP Tudravu said.

“Before the school holidays we had two such cases of students and they had simply gone off to be with their friends without inform­ing anyone.

“They were returned safely, but considering the time and resourc­es spent on looking for them, it could have been avoided simply by improving communication with parents and guardians,” ACP Tudravu said.

He urged people to communicate especially in the case of children. He asked children to openly com­municate with their parents or guardians about their plans.

“It’s simple steps like these that can avoid a lot of unnecessary panic and distress.”

Police are currently working to establish the total number of missing persons reported this year.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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