Police, welfare officers crack down on children loitering at night

Children found loitering alone at night will be taken to the nearest police station, as authorities step up efforts to protect minors during the festive season.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said the measure is part of a joint operation between her ministry and the Fiji Police Force to address growing concerns over children roaming urban centres after dark.

Ms Kiran warned that leaving children unsupervised at night exposes them to serious risks, including drug use, HIV infection, exploitation, abuse, robbery and road accidents.

“We are very concerned to see children loitering in urban centres to explore nightlife,” she said.

As part of the initiative, regular patrols and sweeps will be carried out in identified hotspots, with Child Welfare Officers, supported by Labour officers, deployed on the ground.

Children taken into custody will be referred to Child Welfare Officers, who will counsel the children and their families and assess whether additional socio-economic support is required under the Child Care and Protection Act.

Ms Kiran reminded parents and guardians that children under the age of 16 must not be left unsupervised in public spaces after dark, warning that repeat cases of neglect could result in legal action.

She called on parents, guardians, elders and members of the public to play an active role in protecting children during the festive period.

“Safeguarding our children is a shared responsibility,” she said.

Members of the public are encouraged to report cases of unsupervised children by calling the toll-free Child Help Line 1325.

Ms Kiran also thanked the Fiji Police Force and frontline officers for their continued commitment to child protection.