Police have warned school administrations in Labasa to refrain from storing large amounts of money on school grounds. This alert follows a noticeable uptick in burglaries targeting both primary and secondary schools in the region. Authorities are calling on schools to strengthen their security protocols to forestall further incidents.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander for the Northern Division, noted a surge in break-ins at educational institutions this month. The thefts have occurred in canteens, classrooms, and various administrative offices within the schools. Police are encouraging schools to enhance protective measures for their properties and valuables.
Incident reports indicate that the first break-in happened between August 5 and 6, when an individual allegedly forced open the main door of a secondary school in Labasa Town, entered the canteen, and made off with cash and various items. The second reported incident occurred at a primary school outside Labasa Town, where an intruder broke into the main office between August 8 and 9 and stole cash.
A similar incident took place between August 9 and 11 at a prominent college in Labasa, where someone forced open the principal’s office door and took cash. Another burglary occurred between August 14 and 15 at a primary and secondary school sharing the same property, resulting in the theft of cash, assorted items, and snacks. In the latest incident, spanning from August 16 to 17, an individual allegedly broke into a primary school in Labasa Town and stole snacks, other items, and cash.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka stressed the critical need for proper security of school properties. “Teachers and school management need to collaborate to ensure that a watchman is present at all times,” he stated. “Security measures must be in place at all times.”