Fears over safety after Samora Machel pre-school robbed

STAFF at the Vukile Tshwete Early Childhood Development Centre in Samora Machel say they fear for their safety after the facility was robbed and vandalised for the third time this year.

The centre caters for more than 90 children from the area.

Principal Nokuzola Ncwadi said staff were fearful after several attacks at the facility. “We have previously reported other cases but we have not seen any change or heard of any arrests in relation to the damaging of our centre. What is worrying is that the centre does not have enough of a budget to (replace) … stolen items,” Ncwadi said.

“They (criminals) have stolen items such as laptops, copy machines, meter boxes and many other things.”

Ncwadi said the centre did not have security personnel present throughout the day and night.

“The suspects who vandalise this centre are the same people who live within the area … This is a shame because they are destroying the future of the little ones.”

The centre appealed to the public to donate funds towards food, laptops, ceiling repairs, chairs, tables and learning materials.

Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said: “The case was reported late in the afternoon (Monday). The local criminal record centre was contacted to visit the scene to obtain fingerprints of possible suspects, if available. The suspects are unknown and yet to be arrested. The local police are following up all available leads to arrest the suspects.”

Police urged anyone with information about the incident to call investigating officer Kula on 074 565 7880 or anonymously contact Crime Stop on 0860010111, or SMS Crime Line on 32211.

To donate to the centre, contact Ncwadi on 073 073 2530.