Shoes Stolen In Navua In The Name Of Rugby?

Shoes and bicycles have been targeted in a recent spate of alleged thefts, which has led many in Navua believing that it’s the work of youths, mainly teenagers.

According to some Navua residents, they were informed by Police that young people had been doing this and selling the shoes and other items, supposedly to buy tickets for Namosi Farebrother-Sullivan trophy rugby games.

Shirley Kumar, who lives in Navua Town, said her home was targeted twice, and in both times, shoes were taken.

Nine bicycles recovered by Navua Police last week.

“Early this year, I think in April, shoes belonging to my husband were stolen. There was a Police patrol vehicle that night and I can recall the officer arresting a 15-year-old boy,” she said.

“He was brought to us with the shoes and we realised that he was just a little older than our son, so we decided not to press charges.

“We also decided to help him with school, but that did not eventuate because the boy failed to return to us after that day.”

Three weeks ago, her son’s shoes were taken. Houses in the vicinity were also targeted and the only things taken too were shoes. Some of the residents opted not to report the matter to the Police.

Meanwhile, other residents have said bicycles were also stolen from them.

Rajendra Singh said his son’s bicycle and shoes were stolen a month ago while the family were having lunch at their Navua home.

“One minute it was there and the next it was gone. We did not go to the Police because we did not see anyone take it,” Mr Singh said.

“If these children are doing it, then I appeal to their parents to have a word with them and keep them in-check.”

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said they had received just one report of such thefts in the last three weeks.

She said it would be unfair to generalise the spate of thefts on youths in the area.

Edited by Naisa Kaoroi

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