A Lautoka resident has raised concerns about the increasing number of youths engaging in gambling as schools approach the holiday period, warning that children as young as 10 to 12 years old are involved.
Speaking to fijivillage News, the resident says he has witnessed youths gambling for money with coconut sellers, with the money sometimes allegedly being used to buy drugs.
He says he has also seen students leaving home for school before hiding their school bags in drains and engaging in gambling instead.
The resident says some of the areas where these activities take place include near sweet stalls in the city, Field 40 near the Andhra Sangam School bus bay, and Rifle Range.
He acknowledges that Police conduct patrols in these areas but says the youths appear to know the patrol schedules and disperse when a Police vehicle approaches.
The resident says the situation is concerning as gambling sometimes leads to fights when disagreements arise, putting other members of the public at risk.
He is calling on the relevant authorities to urgently look into the matter, particularly with children involving themselves in these activities.
Meanwhile, Lautoka City Council says the issue of students skipping school and gambling is serious matter and they are currently looking into the matter.
Questions have been sent to, Police, and Ministry of Children.
