Church council expresses concern over missing children

The Fiji Council of Churches (FCC) has expressed deep pastoral concern over the increasing reports of missing children aged between 13 and 16.

This follows Police confirmation that two students of Nadovi Primary School in Cuvu, Nadroga, are among those reported missing.

FCC general secretary Reverend Sepiuta Hala’api’api said community concerns had grown with churches responding to a rise in missing childrens’ cases.

She frames it as a national social concern involving families, churches and authorities.

“Our children are precious gifts from God, entrusted into our care, protection and love,” Rev Hala’api’api said.

“Their disappearance reminds us of the urgent need to strengthen our homes, communities and support systems so that our young people may feel safe, heard, valued and guided.

“In a time where many youths face emotional struggles, social pressures, violence, neglect, online dangers and feelings of isolation, the church is called to respond not with judgment, but with compassion, presence, prayer and action.”

She quoted Matthew 18:10, saying: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones.”

FCC calls on parents

The FCC has called on parents, guardians, churches, schools, community leaders and authorities to work together to protect and nurture children.

“We pray for the safe return of every missing child, for comfort and strength on grieving families, and for God’s wisdom upon all those involved in the search and response efforts,” Reverend Hala’api’api said.

“May we as a nation become a safer, more compassionate and attentive community where every child knows they are loved, protected and never forgotten.”

Police said the following people were reported missing:

- Ransheel Rishab Singh, 15, was reported missing at Sigatoka Police Station on May 22.

- Shreya Sonal Prasad, 14, was also reported missing at Sigatoka Police Station on May 26.

- Sisters Sereima Laladavui, 18, and Elenoa Veresa, 16, were reported missing at Korovou Police Station on May 21.

- Meredani Moce, 13, was reported missing at Nadi Police Station on May 21.

- Saivora Raleba, 15, was reported missing at Sigatoka Police Station on May 24. Police said attempts by family members to locate her have been unsuccessful