A juvenile and two men are expected to appear at the Magistrates Court in Labasa today, facing multiple charges of burglary and aggravated robbery. Their alleged criminal activities spanned several weeks, with a series of break-ins occurring between December 5 and December 31, 2024, in the Labasa area.
In one incident on December 5, the group broke into the home of a 43-year-old self-employed man in Bocalevu while he was away in town with his family, stealing valuable items worth $1,104, which included five kilograms of Yagona, mats, and bags.
The following day, on December 6, they targeted a 50-year-old farmer in Vuniqari, Tabia, who was attending a wedding. This time, they made off with $18,894 worth of items, including jewelry, clothing, mobile phones, and perfumes.
On December 13, another break-in occurred at the home of a 43-year-old self-employed woman, also in Bocalevu, who was away at a wedding. Her property suffered a loss of $3,217 in shop items.
A more alarming incident took place on December 20 when they threatened a 60-year-old woman and her 2-year-old granddaughter in Vunidova with a cane knife, stealing goods valued at $6,372.
The last reported burglary happened on December 31, early in the morning, when they entered the home of a 54-year-old farmer in Bocalevu while the family was sleeping. Upon awakening, the family discovered that some louver blades had been removed, and items worth $1,817 were gone.
This series of crimes raises concerns about community safety and the need for vigilant measures to protect families, especially during holidays and gatherings when homes are often left unoccupied. It is a sobering reminder for residents to enhance security in their homes. Moving forward, it’s hoped that these arrests will serve as a deterrent and instigate stronger law enforcement efforts in the region, fostering a safer environment for all.
Leave a comment