Headteachers in the Lautoka, Nadi and Yasawa districts have been reminded they have the authority to question students involved in suspected illegal activities, as police move to clear up widespread misinformation.
Police juvenile officer (West) Sergeant Asenaca Taufa made the clarification during a district symposium this week, stressing that teachers play a critical frontline role in gathering information.
“Yes, you can question the child because you have to get the information in order to report to us,” Sgt Taufa said.
The issue was raised by Donato Labalaba, headteacher of Amichandra Memorial School, who shared a troubling case from his previous posting where a student was allegedly used to transport drugs and paid for it.
“The child uses that money — $50 — to buy from the school canteen,” Mr Labalaba said.
“When in the home there is no one employed, how should we deal with this case.”
He questioned whether teachers should intervene directly or wait for police.
In response, Sgt Taufa said teachers not only can but must engage the child to obtain key details before reporting the matter.
“You can ask where it is from, what happened, whatever information you have you can report it, and we will take it from there,” she said.
“Because that is your duty.”
She also addressed false claims suggesting teachers were not allowed to question students.
“No, you can, you can always speak to that child, and you can always question that child,” she said.
Sgt Taufa said teachers acted as guardians during school hours and were mandated under the law to ensure the safety and welfare of students.
She further encouraged school leaders to complete Child Welfare Act forms with accurate information to assist police investigations.
