Buruku Adventist CHS loses $9,000 in a break-in, forcing a week-long class suspension as police investigate
UGHELE, Rendova – Buruku Adventist Community High School in Ughele Village, Western Province, has suspended classes for one week after thieves allegedly broke into the school’s administration office and stole approximately $9,000 in cash.
The break-in reportedly occurred at around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday during a period of strong winds and heavy rain.
According to school officials, the stolen money included funds raised by students through the sale of spiritual DVDs, as well as contributions from parents and community members collected before the semester break. The funds were intended to support the school’s ongoing chapel renovation project. A portion of the stolen money also consisted of school tithes and offerings.
Principal Maunder Simba said he discovered on Sunday morning that the administration office had been forced open and the cash was missing. Some coins were left scattered across the office, suggesting the suspects fled in a hurry.
A music device bearing a person’s name was later found inside one of the school’s classrooms. Villagers believe the item could assist police in identifying a suspect.
“It is a sad moment for our school community,” Mr. Simba said.
“This money was raised with a lot of sacrifice. Now our Chapel Project will be put on hold.”
The incident has been reported to Munda Police. However, due to ongoing bad weather, officers have so far only recorded the complaint. A full investigation is expected to begin once weather conditions improve.
Village leaders and chiefs have condemned the theft and are urging police to act swiftly, noting that the school has previously been targeted by thieves.
In response to the incident and concerns over security, the school has suspended classes for one week while community leaders and school management review measures to improve safety.
Community leader Laku Kea called for an urgent Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting and appealed for closer cooperation between parents, teachers and police to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
He expressed concern that the week-long suspension would disrupt learning, particularly for students preparing for national examinations.
“My worries go to those examinable classes. They will miss important lessons while their exams are only a few months away,” he said.
Mr. Kea said the closure could affect students’ preparation and hoped the matter would be resolved quickly.
Some members of the Ughele community believe the owner of the music device found at the scene should be questioned as part of the investigation, while stressing that police should determine responsibility based on the evidence.
Mr. Simba also appealed to parents and the wider community to address the underlying causes of youth crime and discourage criminal behaviour.
He urged anyone involved in the theft to return any remaining money and help restore trust within the community.
By: Elron Doseko, Ugele Village Western Province
