EDITOR’S NOTE: The girl has been found, Kaniva News has removed her name and photo from this article.
The police are urging parents and children to be vigilant, following what appeared to be an abduction of a girl in eastern Nuku’alofa yesterday.
According to report by a family member on Facebook last night, two men appeared to have coerced the 12-year-old into a car, as she was at a swimming spot nearby.
Police said this evening the girl was located and returned to her parents safely.
It did not say whether there was any physical contact between the apparent abductors and the girl, but it said “the Police are looking to establish the reason for the minor’s action”.
“Tonga Police responded to a report of a missing 12-year-old girl from Fangaloto last night, 10 January 2024, after going for a swim”, the police said in a statement.
It said the young girl was found in the early hours of today, 11 January 2024, and has been returned safely to her parents.
Meanwhile, Tonga Police is reminding parents and guardians to be more alert for the safety of their children.
“It is also wise to always remind children to never talk to strangers and not to accept anything offered by anyone other than their parents and to alert the police should you or your child feel unsafe in any situation.
To report a crime or for assistance from police, call us on 922 or 740-1630 or 740-1632”.
