Police in Samoa are urging parents to take care of their children over the holidays as they continue their search for the body of a ten-year old girl off the coast of Savaii.
Police investigators say a 15-year old boy has admitted to raping and killing the victim before drowning her and dumping her body out at sea.
The assistant police commissioner Papalii Li'o has told local media the incident took place on the evening of New Year's Day, at Tafua-Tai village where the accused was visiting at the time.
Our correspondent Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia says parents are being told to keep a close watch on their children at all times - but especially during the holiday season.
"The police have urged the public, yknow especially parents, to take good care of their children and make sure that they don't end up in this kind of situation."
Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
The 15-year old is facing a murder charge.