Thieves targeting schools

Police urge residents to report suspicious behaviour after spate of break-ins

POLICE are investigating the fourth break and enter of a Toowoomba school in four days.

Glenvale State School is the latest facility to be broken into since Wednesday as police warn offenders of harsh penalties if caught on the grounds outside official hours.

The Toowoomba Criminal Investigation Branch and forensic officers spent the morning at the Glenvale school after an internal alarm alerted authorities to the incident.

It was not immediately clear what was taken.

The Glenvale school is the fourth to be targeted since Wednesday.

Gabbinbar State School was broken into overnight Wednesday with bricks thrown around the campus, causing damage to a number of buildings.

Laptops and other items were stolen and the school’s tuckshop rifled through, forcing it to close on Thursday. It has since re-opened. Rangeville State School was damaged by a determined effort of intruders to gain entry into various buildings, and a bottle of water stolen from the grounds.

It was one of two schools broken into overnight Friday, with Toowoomba State High School also targeted.

Police have reminded residents it is an offence to be on school grounds outside official hours, and those caught unlawfully on the premises could be charged with trespass.

“It is a cause for concern as the schools vacate for the holidays,” a spokesman said.

Police have urged residents near schools to be vigilant and report any suspect behaviour near the grounds.

Trespass incidents or damage to school properties can be reported to the School Watch hotline over the holiday period on 13 17 88.

Anyone with information is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.