TWO VEHICLES were broken into on Thursday afternoon (June 21), in the car park at the International School of the Algarve, in Porches.
Headmaster John Butterworth said: “Though very regrettable, this is an isolated incident.” He added that in his 17-year career at the school, he can only remember one other such incident, which occurred several years ago.
Allegedly, bags were stolen from the cars and parents said they were concerned about the thefts.
John Butterworth said that the incidents appeared to be isolated, but added: “We cannot be complacent; the school administration keeps security under constant review and will take whatever measures are necessary.”
Caution
He said that during the summer holiday the school plans to fit signs in the car park to remind parents not to leave valuables visible in their cars. However, he said that the fitting of CCTV is a more complicated issue.
“CCTV requires licensing from the appropriate regulatory commission. We have already applied for this and been turned down. Our parking area is considered a public area and is regulated by the local authority. They do not consider it appropriate at this time.”
He added: “Our parents, too, have a role to play, firstly in exercising extreme caution with their car security and, secondly, in reporting any suspicious behaviour to the school office or our vigilantes.”
Four security guards are currently employed at the school to ensure the children’s safety.
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