Police in Labasa have issued a warning to school administrators to refrain from storing large amounts of cash on school grounds. This advisory follows a noticeable increase in break-ins that have targeted both primary and secondary schools in the region.
Officials are encouraging schools to enforce stricter security protocols to mitigate the risk of future incidents. According to the Divisional Police Commander Northern, Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, there has been a surge in school break-ins this month, affecting canteens, classrooms, and administrative offices.
Baledrokadroka detailed several reported incidents. The first occurred between August 5 and 6, at a secondary school in Labasa Town, where an intruder broke into the canteen and stole money and various items. A second break-in took place at a primary school outside Labasa Town on August 8 and 9, involving the theft of cash from the main office. Another similar incident was reported between August 9 and 11 at a well-known college in Labasa, where the principal’s office was forcibly accessed, resulting in the theft of cash.
A fourth incident was noted between August 14 and 15 at a primary and secondary school sharing the same premises, where cash, various items, and snacks were stolen. The most recent break-in occurred between August 16 and 17, when an intruder entered a primary school in Labasa Town, stealing snacks, other items, and cash.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka stressed the necessity of ensuring school properties are properly secured. He advised teachers and school management to collaborate in keeping a watchman on duty at all times, emphasizing the need for ongoing security measures.