‘Dangers can arise in seconds’: Minister warns parents, guardians after drowning incident

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran has described the drowning of a three-year-old boy in Taveuni as tragic.

She warned parents and guardians never to leave young children unsupervised.

The child was allegedly left alone at his Welagi Village home early this week while his guardian went to a nearby shop.

Upon returning and finding the boy missing, a search was launched, and he was later found floating in the sea, according to Police.

Ms Kiran said the incident was a painful reminder that dangers can arise within seconds when children are left unattended.

"This is a deeply heartbreaking incident and my thoughts are with the family and community during this difficult time," Ms Kiran said.

"It is a tragic reminder that young children must never be left unsupervised, even for a moment, as dangers can arise within seconds."

With the term one school break approaching, she urged parents to remain vigilant and ensure children are under the care of a responsible adult at all times.

"Children should never be placed in the position of supervising other children, as this places them at risk and is not a responsibility they are equipped to handle," she said.

"I also encourage families to keep children meaningfully engaged in planned and supervised activities during the holidays, so they are in safe environments and less exposed to risk.

Police investigations are continuing, and a postmortem examination will be conducted.