In response to the incident of a 13 year old girl who went missing on 15 December and was found dead about 500 m away from her home in Pudukudirippu, Mullativu three days later, Police Spokesperson SSP (Attorney at Law) Nihal Thalduwa told The Morning that such incidents can be avoided with proper care and responsible behaviour from parents and guardians. "Firstly, around the clock care is needed. This is the first and foremost that needs to be followed with children. Even when children are put to sleep in the night, it is recommended that a parent checks up on them at least once in the night. This is because children are vulnerable and can easily be convinced to walk out of the house with anyone if asked to," he said. Thalduwa's next word of advice was that parents should spot the difference in their children's behaviour. "Children's behaviour reflects their inner feelings. When children are exposed to uncomfortable situations, they tend to show it in their everyday behaviour. Some kids stop eating, some start secluding themselves, some stop talking, while others cannot stop talking. Children also tend to show their emotions through actions, so parents should closely monitor how they play with their toys," said Thalduwa. Additionally, Thalduwa said the most important thing was that parents must build a close relationship with the child. "This is because children crave nurturing and love. By always shouting and threatening children, parents break the bridge that links them emotionally, and children start looking for love in other places. This does not mean that children should not be disciplined, but it means that there is a way of disciplining children. Building and maintaining the bridge between the child and parent ensures that no matter what, the child will always approach the parent for advice and any concerns they might have," Thalduwa explained. Referring to the recent kidnapping, rape and murder of the 13 year old, Thalduwa said that such cases are commonly seen within the home atmosphere. "These things start from home. It can also be within the family members. We have seen cases like that. So, parents must understand that even at home, children should be dressed appropriately and not be exposed to people who might not be appropriate. Children should also know how to maintain distance between people, and it is the parents who need to protect the child from uncomfortable situations," he advised. In conclusion, SSP Thalduwa said that when abuse starts at a young age, it is taken forward into adulthood and this creates a damaged society.