Police in Labasa have issued a warning to local schools regarding the safekeeping of money, advising management to refrain from storing large amounts of cash on school grounds. This advisory follows a noted rise in break-ins affecting both primary and secondary educational institutions in the area.
Authorities are emphasizing the need for schools to adopt enhanced security measures to thwart future thefts. Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander of the Northern Division, has noted an uptick in burglary incidents within schools this month, which have involved break-ins at canteens, classrooms, and various administrative offices.
Baledrokadroka detailed several incidents, with the first occurring between August 5 and 6 at a secondary school in Labasa Town, where an intruder broke open the main door, accessing the canteen and making off with cash and various goods. Another incident took place at a primary school outside Labasa Town between August 8 and 9, where an intruder forcibly entered the main office and stole cash. A similar event occurred at a prominent college in Labasa between August 9 and 11, where the principal’s office was compromised, leading to stolen cash.
Additionally, on August 14 and 15, a primary and secondary school located together experienced theft, with cash, assorted items, and snacks taken. The most recent theft noted happened between August 16 and 17 at a primary school in Labasa Town where an individual stole snacks, items, and cash.
As the community prepares for school holidays, SSP Baledrokadroka has stressed the critical nature of properly securing school properties. He advised that teachers and school management should collaborate to ensure a watchman is on site at all times, reinforcing the necessity of ongoing security measures.