An adorable scene of a Chinese police officer mediating a quarrel among seven primary school children captured hearts on social media.
The group visited a police station in eastern China’s Zhejiang province on the evening of December 19.
They sought assistance from the police after disputing a minor issue while playing nearby. The specifics of their argument were not disclosed in the report.
Upon entering the station, one child referred to the officer as “Uncle Police” and requested: “Can you help us settle our argument?”
The officer on duty, Guo Guanwei, welcomed them and invited them into the station’s mediation room, treating their dispute with the same seriousness as any other case he had handled.
Guo instructed the boys to sit on one side and the girls on the other, allowing each group to send a representative to present their side of the story.
With patience, Guo guided them with questions such as “What happened?” and “What do you think is unfair?”
He used simple language to ensure the children could easily grasp his meaning.
In his effort to instill principles of respect, communication, and understanding, Guo remarked: “Quarrels do not solve problems. True strength lies in tolerating and reasoning with others.”
He also commended them, saying: “The fact that you came to me to resolve your argument shows your belief in the rule of law, which is incredible.”
After 30 minutes of mediation, the children began to understand one another and ultimately resolved their disagreement with a handshake.
They promised Guo to communicate better in the future when conflicts arise.
Reflecting on his approach to the children’s dispute, Guo stated: “Every matter we mediate is significant, regardless of its scale.”
He emphasised that the essence of mediation is to “teach people to respect and communicate with one another.”
The incident garnered widespread admiration online.
“This is incredibly heartwarming. The children were wise to approach the police, and the officer treated them with respect,” one commenter noted.
Another added: “Although the issue was minor, its impact on these children is profound, as it builds their trust and reliance on the police in the future.” -- SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
