Break-in forces school to close

CLASSES at Kokopo Primary School in East New Britain have been suspended indefinitely following a break-in at the school administration building on Wednesday.
Students arrived at the school only to learn of the break-in and were sent home.
Head teacher Wesley Watnabar said the break-in happened at about 4am when six suspects armed with five bush knives and a homemade gun used a pinch bar to open the door of the school administration office.
He said the suspects forced open the drawer where money was kept and took some cash.
“However, they were disturbed by men and youths living in the school residence,” Watnabar said.
“The burglars left behind most of the money that was kept in the drawer”, their weapons and a pinch bar.
He said the school administration staff was yet to establish how much was stolen.
“Classes have been suspended for an indefinite period,” he said.
The matter was reported to police who were collecting statements, with an investigation to follow.
“This is a very sad situation because the children are the ones who are most affected and we decided to send them home until the matter is sorted out,” Watnabar said.