Speaking to fijivillage News on the increasing number of iTaukei people involved in break-ins, Roko Tui Bau Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua says everything points back to the family.
Ratu Timoci believes the lack of proper family guidance is contributing to some of the problems being seen among young people today.
Insert: Roko Tui Bau on the Home 16th Sept 26
He says when young people leave their homes, have no employment and need to survive, some may resort to activities such as stealing or breaking into homes.
Ratu Timoci says families need to strengthen their homes and ensure young people receive the attention, guidance and support they need.
He says having that support within the home can help address some of the issues affecting young people before they become more serious.
Ratu Timoci also says addressing the issue is not solely the responsibility of the Vanua.
He says the Vanua, chiefs, churches, the Government and other stakeholders need to work together to address the challenges facing young people.
The Roko Tui Bau says a collective approach involving the church, Vanua and other stakeholders, while strengthening families, can help address issues such as truancy and youth involvement in crime.
fijivillage has sought Police statistics on break-ins and the involvement of youths in these cases.
