Accra, Feb. 23, GNA - The attention of The Ministry of Women and Children's Affairs has expressed deep concern about the alarming but avoidable deaths of children in abandoned vehicles in auto garages in recent times.

Three children were found dead in a disused vehicle which was parked

at an auto-workshop in their neighbourhood in Anyaa, Accra. Another worrying report came in at the weekend from Alogboshie, near Achimota, where three young children were found dead in an abandoned car in a house in their neighbourhood. Some children died under similar circumstances in Kumasi late last year.

A statement issued by the sector Minister, Ms. Akua Sena Dansua called on owners of all such abandoned vehicles to take the necessary steps to clear them or take precautionary measures at ensuring that these vehicles do not become death traps for vulnerable children. "We also wish to call on parents to keep a close eye on their children, especially when they go out to play in their neighbourhood. Under section 6, clause (3a) of the Children's Act, parents have the duty to, among others, protect their children from exposure to physical hazards."

The Ministry also wishes to call on the Police to expedite action on investigations into these occurrences to ensure that those found culpable are prosecuted, to serve as a deterrent to others.