Labasa is witnessing an increase in criminal activities in the form of residential house invasions, burglary, theft and temple robberies.

It has led to people in the friendly town living in a constant state of fear and worry.

During the early hours last Saturday, the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Temple on the main street of Labasa Town was targeted as a suspected thief tried to break-in.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that all items stolen were recovered outside the temple.

However, Police have made no arrests. TISI Sangam Labasa Branch President, Kamlesh Reddy was disappointed that people were indulging in such acts, targeting religious settings.

“The thief entered through the rear fence, but could not take the belongings, namely the amplifier, sound system speaker and flat screen television from the boardroom,” he said.

There was no infrastructure damage reported. In Naodamu, Labasa, Zarina Khan, said this was the fifth experience where her rented flat was targeted by robbers.

This incident happened during the early hours between 12:05am and 12:45am last Tuesday.

The Fiji Sun earlier interviewed and reported on similar house invasions from the area. Ms Khan immediately called the Police upon learning that her flat was being targeted and a thief was attempting to break-in.

Quick response by a Police officer on duty prevented the incident and the accused was apprehended. Ms Naisoro confirmed the accused was arrested and charged with theft.

Ms Khan claimed that Police presence remained non-existent, despite numerous requests she said had been made for more Police presence in the area.

The All Saints Secondary School in Labasa, Head of Department (Languages) teacher, said she continued to fear for her life.

“It has become a red zone area and we need the Police force to step up with its regular night patrols,” she claimed.

President of the Shree Sai Ambani Dham temple in Namara, Labasa, Latchman Naidu, said a Police report was lodged recently regarding the temple break-in.

Mr Naidu said this was not the first time the temple was targeted as previous attempts were made to open the cash donation box.

Mr Naidu requested for increased Police surveillance during the late night and early morning period.

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