It’s been revealed that many parents don’t show up to police stations when their child under 18-years-of age is being interrogated.

This has been highlighted by the Juvenile Bureau Unit after concerns were raised about the level of negligence shown by parents of young offenders.

Unit Inspector Ema Bolatolu says it’s sad to see many parents fail to turn up at police stations during an interrogation even though it’s mandatory.

She says some parents are ashamed of the actions committed by their children, however, one must not abandon their responsibility as a parent.

“When your children become teenagers you should spend quality time with them as make an effort to understand them better and most importantly learn to listen to them. Also showing them your concern and interest into their lives can go a long way in setting children on the right path. It’s the little things that count.”

Bolatolu says many young offenders are only driven to engage in illegal activities due to the influence from their peers.

The Juvenile Bureau Unit is calling on parents and guardians to spend quality times with their children at the same time, keep a close watch on them.