DIVISIONAL police commander eastern Senior Superintendent (SSP) Isei Vueti believes police will not be dealing with criminals in the first place if parents guided them in the right direction.
He told delegates at the Lomaiviti Provincial Development Board meeting that the increase in crime in the province stemmed from lack of parental guidance.
"I urge all parents to relook at their roles and duties. The apple does not fall far from the tree and parents are the determining factor in how their children turn out as adults," SSP Vueti said.
It was revealed at the meeting that the number of reported crimes for the first quarter of 2012 was 63 compared to 51 for the same quarter last year.
It also heard that the largest increase was recorded for theft and indecent assault cases 21 and six cases respectively, during the first quarter an increase of five for both crimes over the same period last year.
SSP Vueti revealed there was an increase in sexual offences in the province and said there was a need for a sexual offence unit in Levuka.
He said police was implementing a number of strategies in the province like the upgrading of structural and manpower capabilities and the negotiation for another vehicle.
"We want to establish a highway unit in Levuka with breathalyser and motor cycle capabilities, establish a strong partnership and co-ordination with other government agencies, the provincial council, and village based religious groups," SSP Vueti said.
"We are also intensifying our operations, closely monitoring the movements of boats, vessels, and people to and from Lomaiviti."