Police have issued a warning to school administrators in Labasa, advising against keeping large amounts of cash on school property. This alert follows a recent surge in break-ins at both primary and secondary schools in the area. Authorities are calling for schools to enhance their security protocols to deter further incidents.
Divisional Police Commander Northern, Senior Superintendent Kemueli Baledrokadroka, noted an uptick in break-ins this month, which have taken place in canteens, classrooms, and various administrative offices within the schools. The police are encouraging educational institutions to adopt preventive measures to protect their premises and belongings.
The initial reported incident transpired between August 5 and 6, when an intruder forcibly opened the main door of a secondary school in Labasa Town, gaining access to the canteen and making off with cash and various goods.
A second 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 situation unfolded between August 9 and 11 at a notable college in Labasa, where an individual forced open the principal’s office door and took cash.
Another case reported between August 14 and 15 involved a primary and secondary school sharing the same grounds, where an intruder stole cash, various items, and snacks. The latest incident occurred from August 16 to 17 at a primary school in Labasa Town, where assorted snacks and cash were taken.
As teachers, students, and parents prepare for the upcoming school holidays, SSP Baledrokadroka stressed the necessity of securing school facilities effectively. He urged collaboration between teachers and school management to ensure that a security watchman is on duty at all times, stating, “Security measures must be in place at all times.”