Police in Labasa have issued a warning to school administrations, advising them against keeping large amounts of cash on school grounds. This alert follows a notable rise in break-ins targeting both primary and secondary schools in the region. Authorities are calling on educational institutions to enhance their security measures to help prevent such occurrences.
Divisional Police Commander (DPC) Northern Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka has noted an uptick in school break-ins this month. Incidents have been reported in school canteens, classrooms, and various offices. The police are urging schools to take proactive steps to protect their facilities and property.
Recently reported incidents include a break-in at a secondary school in Labasa Town between August 5 and 6, where an intruder forced open the main door, entered the canteen, and made off with cash and other items. A second break-in occurred at a primary school outside Labasa Town between August 8 and 9, where an individual forcefully accessed the main office and stole cash.
A third similar break-in happened between August 9 and 11 at a well-known college in Labasa, where someone forced open the principal’s office and took cash. Another incident was reported between August 14 and 15 at a primary and secondary school sharing the same grounds, in which an intruder stole cash, various items, and snacks. The most recent break-in occurred between August 16 and 17 at a primary school in Labasa Town, where assorted snacks and cash were stolen.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka highlighted the need for proper security of school properties. He stressed that teachers and school management should collaborate to ensure a watchman is present at all times and that security measures are consistently enforced.