An elderly man has been left shaken after his home was broken into and household items, groceries, tools, clothes and cash were stolen from his home at Rokara Settlement along Khalsa Road, while Police have confirmed that a suspect is currently in custody for questioning.
80-year-old Mahendra Nath told fijivillage News that the break-in occurred early yesterday morning, sometime between 2am and 9.30am, while he was away from home caring for a canteen in the neighbourhood.
Nath says when he returned, he found the door broken and his belongings scattered throughout the house.
He says wardrobe drawers had been opened and clothes and blankets were taken.
He says other stolen items included a circular saw, chisel, electric iron, toaster and frying pan, while groceries including 10kg of rice, sugar, tinned fish, tuna, cooking oil, coffee, powdered milk and eggs were also taken.
Nath says cash was also stolen, including $50 from his wallet and money kept at his prayer area.
He says he reported the matter to police yesterday morning. However, officers arrived at the settlement in the afternoon.
When asked whether he suspected anyone, Nath says he did not know who could be responsible and was reluctant to name anyone without evidence, fearing another incident could occur.
HINDI INSERT: Nath on break-in 27th Aug
Nath says there have been similar break-ins in the settlement over the past week or so, which have been reported to Police, but no one has been arrested so far.
He is now calling on police to increase patrols in the area, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon hours.
He says elderly residents in the settlement are vulnerable and need greater protection.
Nath also wants police to respond promptly when break-ins are reported, saying an immediate response could help officers catch those responsible.
Meanwhile, Police have confirmed that a 32-year-old man was arrested at Tacirua Village and is currently in custody at the Valelevu Police Station.
