Wharf theft an organised crime: Police

The aggravated robbery at Sealand Processes Fiji Limited at the Millers Wharf in Walu Bay is an organised crime, reliable Police sources say. 

Following the incident in the early hours of Monday, December 29, Police has apprehended one of the seven suspects. 

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed to this masthead on Friday that the suspect was released because Police are yet to gather concrete evidence. 

Our police sources say the incident was well-executed and that the seven men had pre-planned the crime. 

The men were wearing reflectors and came in a boat, which drew less attention and suspicions, our Police sources said. 

A widely circulated footage captured the men climbing over the company fence, threatened security guard, Paula Vale, with a cane knife, and stole a safe before fleeing in a fiberglass boat. 

Mr Vale was allegedly handcuffed and forced to kneel while his two young sons, aged 12 and 10, slept nearby. 

Our Police source say the safe contained the company’s cash, which comprised local and foreign currencies. 

This masthead understands that this is the second time that a crime of such nature has taken place at the same site. 

Police investigation into the matter continues.