Police in Labasa have warned school administrators to refrain from keeping large amounts of cash on school grounds. This advisory follows a notable increase in break-ins at both primary and secondary schools in the region.
Authorities are calling on schools to enhance their security protocols to curb further incidents. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander for Northern Division, reported a surge in school break-ins this month, which have affected canteens, classrooms, and various offices within the educational institutions.
The first reported incident occurred between August 5 and 6, when an individual allegedly forced open the main door of a secondary school in Labasa Town, gaining access to the canteen where cash and other items were taken. The second incident was reported at a primary school located outside of Labasa Town, where, between August 8 and 9, an intruder forcibly entered the main office and stole cash.
The third case, which mirrored the previous ones, took place between August 9 and 11 at a well-known college in Labasa. In this case, someone broke into the principal’s office and made off with cash. Another incident occurred between August 14 and 15 at a primary and secondary school sharing the same premises, where an intruder stole cash, various items, and snacks.
The latest break-in transpired between August 16 and 17, when someone allegedly entered a primary school in Labasa Town and stole an assortment of snacks, items, and cash.
As teachers, students, and parents prepare for the upcoming school holidays, SSP Baledrokadroka highlighted the necessity of properly securing school properties. He stressed that school staff and management should collaborate to ensure a watchman is present at all times, emphasizing the need for consistent security measures.