By Norah Musega
Parents whose children will be found loitering along the streets of Rongo Sub-County in Migori County will be arrested.
It has been reported that children are walking aimlessly instead of remaining at home since the government suspended learning in March as a way of curbing the spread of the Covid-19 in the country.
Rongo Police Commander Mr Peter Okiring yesterday warned parents against dodging their parental obligations during Covid-19 pandemic citing that most parents do not bother to know whereabouts of their children.
Last week’s operation saw sixteen teenagers arrested within the sub-county after which eight of them were arraigned in court and released on sh. 1000 fine while the other eight were collected by their respective parents.
“Most teenagers who are currently pregnant or involved in other illegal activities are victims of irresponsible parenting and this is the norm that we wish to end,” said Okiring.
Speaking to Education News, Mr Okiring said that he, together with the Deputy County Commissioner Mr Joseph Satia and the Sub-County children’s officer David Magogo are set to spearhead the operation in a bid to ensure that children are safe.
Mr Okiring called on parents to ensure their children are not found in market places as the same rule will always apply.
“Failure to monitor children will only result in teenage pregnancies, substance abuse and increase in defilement cases within the society,” added Okiring.
However, he encouraged children to stay at home and help their parents with house chores and read instead of engaging in activities that has negative impact in their lives.
