Parents and guardians are being urged to know where their children are at all times following the tragic death of the 12-year-old boy whose body was found in Wailoku after he was reported missing.
The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection says the heartbreaking incident is a reminder that protecting children is a shared responsibility that begins at home and extends throughout communities.
It has extended its condolences to the boy's parents, family, loved ones, classmates and the wider community.
While Police continue their investigation into the case, the Ministry says it will not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the boy's death and is urging anyone with information that could assist Police to come forward.
The Ministry says 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 is also calling on parents to take an active interest in their children's daily activities, friendships, online interactions and emotional wellbeing, saying open communication and regular engagement can help identify concerns early and reduce risks.
The Ministry stresses that child protection cannot be left to families alone, saying neighbours, relatives, teachers, faith leaders, youth leaders and community members all have a role to play in safeguarding children and should not ignore warning signs if a child's safety may be at risk.
It is also urging adults who host children for sleepovers or extended visits to ensure parents or guardians know the child's whereabouts and have given permission, saying a simple phone call can make the difference between a child being safe and a family experiencing unimaginable distress.
The Ministry has also raised concerns about children being left in the care of grandparents or extended family members following parental separation, remarriage or migration, stressing that while relatives often provide valuable care, biological parents remain responsible for their children's safety, development and wellbeing.
It says Government programmes and laws alone cannot keep children safe, and protecting children requires vigilance, responsibility and action from every parent, caregiver and community.
The Ministry is encouraging members of the public to seek help through the Child Helpline on 1325, the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 1560, the Social Protection Helpline on 1561, or to contact Police on 917 or the nearest police station to report a missing child, suspected abuse or information relating to an investigation.
The Ministry says protecting children begins at home and is urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant and always know the whereabouts of their children.
