Police in Labasa have warned school administrations to refrain from keeping large amounts of cash on school grounds following a surge in break-ins at local primary and secondary schools. This caution emphasizes the need for heightened security measures to deter further incidents.
Divisional Police Commander Northern, Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, reported an uptick in break-ins this month, which have occurred in canteens, classrooms, and various administrative offices within the schools. Authorities are urging educational institutions to take proactive steps to protect their assets.
Baledrokadroka detailed several incidents that have transpired recently. The first incident was reported between August 5 and 6, when an individual allegedly broke into a secondary school in Labasa Town, accessing the canteen to steal cash and other items.
Another case involved a primary school outside Labasa Town, where an intruder forcibly entered the main office between August 8 and 9, stealing cash. A similar incident occurred at a prominent college from August 9 to 11, where someone managed to break into the principal’s office and make off with cash.
Further robberies took place between August 14 and 15 at a combined primary and secondary school located on the same premises, where an intruder made away with cash, assorted goods, and snacks. The most recent incident was reported between August 16 and 17, involving the theft of snacks, items, and cash at a primary school in Labasa Town.
As the school holidays approach, SSP Baledrokadroka stressed the need for better security of school properties. He urged teachers and school management to collaborate and ensure that a watchman is present at all times, reinforcing that security measures should always be in place.