Police have warned school administrators in Labasa to avoid keeping large amounts of cash on campus due to a recent uptick in break-ins targeting primary and secondary schools in the region. Authorities are calling for the implementation of stronger security protocols to deter further incidents.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka, Divisional Police Commander (DPC) Northern, noted an increase in school break-ins this month, with incidents reported across canteens, classrooms, and various school offices. He urged schools to take action to protect their facilities and assets.
Reports of incidents include a break-in between August 5 and 6 at a secondary school in Labasa Town, where an intruder forced open the main door and stole cash and various items from the canteen. Another incident occurred at a primary school outside Labasa Town between August 8 and 9, where someone entered the main office and stole cash.
A similar incident took place at a prominent college in Labasa from August 9 to 11, involving an intruder who forced open the principal’s office and took cash. Additionally, between August 14 and 15, an individual broke into a primary and secondary school on the same grounds, stealing cash and assorted items. The latest reported theft occurred between August 16 and 17, when cash and snacks were taken from a primary school in Labasa Town.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka stressed the importance of safeguarding school properties. He emphasized that teachers and school management should collaborate to ensure that a watchman is present at all times, highlighting the necessity for ongoing security measures.