Rasbert Turner, Freelance Writer

st. catherine

Following several reports of truancy by students from various high schools in and around St. Catherine, the Old Harbour police have set up a dragnet that has started to reap success with two 14-year-olds now in police custody.

According to Deputy Superintendent Deutress Foster-Gardener, head of the Old Harbour police, the two 14-year-old school girls who attend high school in a neighbouring parish, went to a certain fast- food outlet in Old Harbour last Tuesday at about 8:30 a.m. They took off their uniforms, placed it in their backpacks and put on skimpy clothing. They reportedly hid the bags and proceeded to a private location.

In the afternoon, at about 3:30 p.m. when the two teenagers went to retrieve their bags, the police were called to the to the establishment and the youngsters were taken into custody.

Appeal to parents

"We are appealing to parents and guardians of these children to be vigilant, search their bags and try their best, to know their whereabouts, as this practice can lead to their death and the police is very concerned about the trend," said DSP Foster-Gardener.

According to the DSP Foster-Gardener, the police have been bombarded with reports of activities being carried out by teenage girls who often ditch their uniforms and find themselves at several locations, including the homes of adult males. She said the police will continue to be vigilant in this regard.

In recent times, the Ministry of Education has made recommendations for establishment of truancy units to help keep a lid on the number of children who hide from school. The children will appear in court later this week.

They have been charged with juveniles in need of care and protection.