Authorities in Labasa are alerting school administrators to refrain from storing large amounts of cash on their premises due to a recent surge in break-ins affecting both primary and secondary schools. The Doucument Police Commander for the Northern Division, Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, has noted a notable increase in school burglaries this month, prompting the call for enhanced security measures.
The break-ins have targeted various areas, including canteens, classrooms, and administrative offices. The police are urging schools to take proactive steps to secure their facilities and assets.
Incident reports indicate that the first burglary occurred between August 5 and 6 at a secondary school in Labasa, where an intruder forced open the main door, entered the canteen, and made off with cash and various goods. Another incident was reported at a primary school outside of Labasa Town between August 8 and 9, where someone broke into the main office and stole cash.
A similar incident transpired between August 9 and 11 at a well-known college in Labasa, involving forced entry into the principal’s office and the theft of cash. On August 14 and 15, an intruder targeted a primary and secondary school sharing the same grounds, stealing cash and assorted items, including snacks. The latest break-in occurred between August 16 and 17 at a primary school in Labasa, where assorted snacks and cash were taken.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka has stressed the importance of securing school properties effectively. He urged teachers and school management to collaborate to ensure a watchman is present at all times and that security measures are continually enforced.