Benjamin Ralia was a special child, and was loved by all in the neighbourhood.

This is what Paulini Ralia, 43, said about her late three-year- old grandson, as she held a photo of him while surrounded by her other grandchildren when the Fiji Sun visited their residence in Qeleloa, Nadi yesterday.

According to Police, the child was reported missing earlier this week in what was believed to be an alleged drowning case.

The three-year-old was missing since Tuesday and was found on Thursday morning by his grandfather in a pool of stagnant water a kilometre away from their home.

According to Ms Ralia her grandson was a child with special needs as he could not speak.

“He will be missed; we are still in shock mourning his loss. Our home will not be the same anymore,” he said.

She added that her grandson was fond of visiting the neighbours and was loved by all.

Benjamin was said to have disappeared from his home around mid- day. By the afternoon, a search began and a report was lodged at the Nadi Police Station.

Police Chief Operations Officer ACP Abdul Khan said the tragic outcome reinforces the importance of supervision particularly with young children.

“As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the child’s tragic death, we are pleading with parents and guardians to be vigilant and alert to your children’s activities at all times,” he said.

ACP Khan is again reiterating the need for anyone with the responsibility of looking after children to be alert and aware of what their children are up to, and to avoid distractions that take their focus away from their children.

A post mortem will be conducted to ascertain the cause of death.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj