Youths steal $20k from parked vehicle

The Fiji Police Force recorded  a rather unique case yesterday  where a 12-year-old and a 14-year old are alleged to have stolen twenty thousand dollars from inside a businessman’s vehicle in Wailada, Lami.

It is alleged the two entered the vehicle belonging to the 57-year-old Director which was parked unattended while he had gone inside his office, and found the cash wrapped in a plastic bag inside one of the compartments.

The two were later joined by two other youths aged 15 and 17 years old before they proceeded to spend the money in Suva.

Police spokeswoman, Ana Naisoro said a report was lodged at the Lami Police Station and the four were later apprehended along Victoria Parade opposite Sukuna Park where over $19,400 was recovered from the four suspects.

 "Members of the public are also being advised to be more careful when carrying large sums of money and ensure all necessary precautions are taken at all times," she said.

"This case where youths aged between 12 and 17 are involved in such acts should be a concern not only for the Police Force but the community as a whole."

"Considering a minute is all it takes to get in and out of unattended vehicles, it is imperative that safety precautions are taken at all times."

Police is once again reminding business people of the need to take more care when handling large sums of money and not take for granted situations that can put them at risk of criminal elements.

By Reginald Chandar