Sivo Laqai, 30, with his wife and children at their home.

The role of the community is to accept inmates, give them a second chance and focus on moving them forward.

That was the word from Officer-in-Charge of the Natabua Corrections Centre, COC Pita Cama when he accompanied Sivo Laqai, 30 to his Tagaqe, Nadroga home last Thursday.

Laqai, who came in for an offence of drug trafficking, has completed a 6-month sentence.

Upon arrival, villages and close relatives of Mr Laqai eagerly awaited their son, father and brother who was away from home for six months.

His wife and two children could not control their emotions.

It was a sad moment, when Laqai apologized to his family and relatives for what he did saying it painted a bad impression of his village and family.

The apology brought tears to family members.

CCO Cama said all ex-offenders deserve love and care.

“We are so happy to see that the entire community of Tagaqe accepted one of their sons with open arms. It indicates the level of love and acceptance here that will help Laqai get back on track,” he said. 

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