The Cook Islands prime minister Henry Puna is calling on parents to help stamp out thefts experienced by visitors to the country.
He blames children for the thefts and says it's an embarrassment for the Cooks.
Speaking at last week's Constitution Day celebrations Mr Puna says while suggestions for tackling the problem include an increase in police numbers and public whippings, he says the root cause of crime is in the home.
He says it's up to parents to take responsibility for their children's behaviour, teach the correct morals and not expect others to provide a solution.
