Vanuatu Police Force has warned that it will take action against any parent who hides or protects a child wanted by police.

Assistant Commissioner of Police and Southern Commander, Jackson Noel, made the warning after reports showed that some parents were hiding their children during police operations targeting youth involved in crime.

“We have to understand that by hiding them, we are not helping. We are making crime worse. If police receive information that people are hiding young people in their yards, we will press charges. I’m urging the public — don’t stop the work of leaders who are trying to fight crime. Work with us to help reduce it,” Commander Noel said.

He reminded communities that supporting law enforcement is the best way to keep families and neighborhoods safe.