Spate of break-ins a worry for residents

JAI Maharaj moved to the farming community of Vakabalea, Navua, 22 years ago because it was “peaceful and quiet”.

Lately, he has begun to have second thoughts after a spate of break-ins and thefts in the area.

Mr Maharaj said the recent robberies had forced residents to take precautions to protect their homes.

He said residents were calling for the establishment of a police post in a bid to reduce the recent spate in crime.

“I have been living here for the past 22 years and bought a piece of land here because of its peaceful and quiet surroundings,” the 71-year-old resident said.

“We have only been robbed once and only liquor and chocolates were stolen. This was back in 2019 after I had returned from a trip to Australia.”

Mr Maharaj, who is also the president of the Vakabalea Farmers Association, said the issue had been raised during meetings.

He said the thieves were people familiar with the area because of the homes they chose to rob.

He said each time there was an incident, about three to four houses would be robbed in one night and it was suspected that a group of youths were working together.

“Since mid-year, there has been a sudden rise in robberies and it’s quite scary to hear.”

Mr Maharaj said there were incidents where home owners had seen thieves peeping into houses at night but disappear before being identified or confronted and there had been some failed attempts as well.

He said some farmers in the area had their crops and vegetables stolen and were upset because of the loss of time and resources invested.

“We need the help of the local authorities and we the community members are more then pleased to help them in whatever way possible.

“Since there is only one road into Vakabalea, I suggest that a police community post be built at the entrance to the community.

“I also request for more police presence in the area.”

Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro said there were five cases recorded from June to August this year.