The President of the Methodist Church in Fiji Reverend Ili Vunisuwai has expressed his concerns over repeated alleged break-in and thefts in churches and church properties.

In an incident on September 11, five men and a juvenile were arrested by Police last week for their alleged involvement in a sacrilege case at the Tovata Methodist Church in Makoi.

According to the church, the men allegedly stole cash that was kept inside the church.

The church could not reveal the amount of money that was stolen when queried yesterday. The very next day, the six men were also alleged to have broken into the Church Reverend’s home and stole mats and tapa.

Chief Operations Officer Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Abdul Khan said the six were arrested following raids conducted by the Criminal Investigations Department, and remain in custody as investigations continue.

A similar incident happened a few months ago where a man in his 20s was produced in the Magistrates Court in Nasinu for allegedly breaking into a Church and the Pastor’s residence and stealing assorted items.

It was alleged that the accused broke into the Navuloa Methodist Church in Nakasi and the Pastor’s residence and stole electronic items, power tools and personal belongings.

Church responds

Reverend Vunisuwai, said not only was the church concerned at the rate of these crimes it was also concerned at the age group of those committing the alleged criminal activities.

“It is a matter of grave concern,” Reverend Vunisuwai said.

“We have always been vocal on the issue of education and the church and how it was vital that these go hand in hand.”

“Whatever the reason these offences have been committed we do not really know but it could be a reflection on the times we are living in,” he added.

He said the church had left it to the Police to investigate.

“They are the ones that will deal with it accordingly.”

“The church will continue to do its work in advocating for the right thing to do and we will always help people when they need it but the law will run its own course.”

“We will carry on with advocating for the right and just thing to do.”

He advised parents to ensure they spent quality time with their children.

Story By: Inoke Rabonu

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj