Police want students at exam, not in jail

Police in Luganville said due to the reason that exams are just around the corner, they felt it is important for the students to sit exams rather than be jail.

This concern was stressed after they (the police) arrested over 70 students from Matevulu College following allegations that they damaged school properties while under the influence of alcohol during Carol Night last weekend.

The allegations were made by the school head.

After collecting statements, police confirmed they did not find enough evidence to charge the students with criminal charges, thus they are dropping the cases.

Commander North, Willie Samuel, said he was more concerned for the students missing out on exams.

“We have received about 70 to 80 cases on the list yesterday morning. As the Commander North, I am more concerned on the education of these children.

“I have spoken with the Sanma Principal Education Officer (PEO) to come up with a suitable solution to ensure these students sit for their exams.

“The police will not deal the case. It is not right for police to interfere when the school itself has not looked into its problems,” said Mr Samuel.

Commander North added: “Police will hand back the case to the school board to punish the students according to the school disciplinary guidelines.

“I understand there are possible options to solving the issue, for example, deducting caution fees for students who brought damage to school properties.”

A concerned parent whose daughter was among the first four brought to jail on Friday night said she will file medical reports against police treatment.

She is not happy that her daughter has been send out from school when her tuition fees has been settled.