The footage, which reportedly shows the boy being tied up, threatened with a cane knife and forced to inhale marijuana, has prompted renewed focus on the need for stronger prevention measures and parental support.
In response, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran says they are preparing to launch a Parenting App aimed at equipping parents and caregivers with practical guidance and support to better protect and guide their children.
Kiran says they strongly condemn the incident, stating that the behaviour shown in the video cannot be dismissed as a prank or harmless conduct.
Kiran says the incident highlighted the responsibility of adults and community leaders to act when children are at risk.
She says every adult, leader, and parent has a duty to protect their children and to act when they are at risk.
Concerns have also been raised following reports that the victim was allegedly threatened after the incident.
Kiran stressed that the safety and wellbeing of the young boy and his family must remain the priority.
She is urging the community leader, Turaga ni Koro, chiefs, Talatala and I Vakatawa, to stand with the family, ensure their protection, and send a clear message that intimidation and violence against children will not be tolerated.
She says the incident has also raised broader questions about the role of adults and community structures, including whether warning signs were missed and what influences are shaping the behaviour of young people.
Kiran is encouraging parents and guardians to remain actively involved in their children’s lives by maintaining open conversations about peer pressure, bullying and substance abuse, listening when children speak about being bullied, and reassuring them that support is available.
She adds the Ministry is currently developing Fiji’s National Action Plan on Violence Against Children to strengthen prevention and response systems at all levels, reiterating that every child has the right to feel safe, respected and protected.
Meanwhile, police have yet to respond to our questions regarding this serious issue.
