Police have issued a warning to schools in Labasa, advising against keeping large amounts of cash on campus. This alert follows a rise in break-ins targeting primary and secondary schools in the area. Authorities are urging educational institutions to enhance their security protocols to avoid further incidents.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander (DPC) for Northern division, noted an increase in school burglaries this month. Break-ins have been reported in canteens, classrooms, and various school offices, prompting police to recommend preventive measures to protect school properties.
Incident reports indicate that the first burglary occurred between August 5 and 6 at a secondary school in Labasa Town, where an individual allegedly pried open the main door to steal cash and various goods from the canteen.
In another case, an intruder broke into a primary school outside Labasa Town between August 8 and 9, entering the main office and taking cash. A similar event transpired at a well-known college in Labasa between August 9 and 11, where someone forced open the principal’s office and made off with cash.
Another burglary occurred between August 14 and 15 at a facility housing both a primary and secondary school, where an intruder stole cash, assorted items, and snacks. The latest incident took place between August 16 and 17 at a primary school in Labasa Town, where assorted snacks, items, and cash were reported stolen.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka stressed the need for comprehensive security measures to protect school properties. He emphasized that teachers and school management should collaborate to ensure a watchman is present at all times, stating, “Security measures must be in place at all times.”