6 cases of temple break-ins recorded in the Western Division

Six cases of temple break-ins have been recorded in the Western Division where prayer donations in the form of money have been the targets of opportunists.

Police say four reports were received in Lautoka and two in Nadi in the past week.

In regards to the cases reported, a meeting was held yesterday between Police and the Executives of the Shree Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha Fiji to discuss the strengthening of security measures in light of recent reports of temple break-ins.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Itendra Nair has also requested the Executives to reach out to their members as a proactive measure to liaise with officers at their nearest police post or station if they know there is a large sum of money in their possession, so steps can be taken to secure the offerings in a safe place.

He says opportunists have little to no regard and respect for places of worship, when they know there is something valuable that can be stolen, which include cash, sound systems, and other valuables.

DCP Nair also says prior arrangements can be made with the officers in charge or station officers of larger stations where police have a safe and the prayer donations of money can be safely secured in a safe.

Meanwhile, the Sanatan Dharam Acting President Dhirendra Nand has thanked the Deputy Commissioner for initiating the meeting to discuss these concerns and assured them of supporting Police in addressing concerns raised.

He says the meeting was a fruitful one as the Fiji Police Force had brought solutions to the table, which was welcomed by the Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji.