The simple question every parent should ask: Where is my child?

The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection is urging parents and guardians across Fiji to take greater responsibility for knowing where their children are at all times following the tragic death of a 12-year-old boy.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry described the incident as a wake-up call for families and communities, stressing that protecting children begins at home but requires vigilance from everyone.

While police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death, the Ministry said it would not speculate on the case and called on anyone with information to assist investigators.

The Ministry said parents and guardians have a fundamental responsibility to know where their children are, who they are with and when they are expected to return home.

It urged parents to maintain regular communication with their children and take an active interest in their friendships, online activities and emotional wellbeing.

The Ministry also raised concerns about children staying at other people’s homes without their parents’ knowledge.

It called on adults hosting children for sleepovers or extended visits to ensure parents or guardians have given permission and know the child’s whereabouts, saying a simple phone call could help prevent tragedy.

The Ministry highlighted concerns about children being left primarily in the care of grandparents or extended family members due to parental separation, remarriage or migration.

While acknowledging the important role relatives play in raising children, it said biological parents remain responsible for their children’s safety, development and wellbeing regardless of changing family circumstances.

The Ministry said child protection extends beyond individual families and requires neighbours, relatives, teachers, faith leaders, youth leaders and the wider community to act when they notice warning signs.

It warned against assuming someone else would intervene, saying early action can save lives.

The Ministry said it would continue working with the Fiji Police Force and community partners to strengthen child protection systems and support vulnerable children and families.

However, it stressed that laws, policies and government programmes alone cannot keep children safe without responsible parenting and community vigilance.

As the nation mourns the loss of the young boy, the Ministry encouraged members of the public to seek support through the Child Helpline, the National Domestic Violence Helpline, the Social Protection Helpline or to contact police immediately in cases involving missing children, suspected abuse or children in immediate danger.