School caretaker helps nab alleged shoplifter2 min read

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Although local school caretaker, Aleki Langi, is being hailed as hero for nabbing an alleged shoplifter trying to run away from mall security, he remains modest about the role he played.

Aleki was driving along Arthur Street with his family at about 4pm on Friday, 17th July, when he saw a man running out of Dress Smart carrying six bags on his shoulder, along with other items including a set of headphones. He says it looked very odd, and when he saw security chasing after the man, he realised what was happening.

Realising there was no way the chasers would catch the man, Aleki drove ahead until he found a driveway to pull into. He was able to grab him and hold him until the mall’s security arrived. The staff were very grateful, as they said the man had been a regular problem, and were pleased he had finally been caught.

As a regular gym-goer and boxer, Aleki says he knew he could handle himself and was not scared. His only concern was the man might have been armed, so warned him to keep his hands away from his pockets, especially after he dropped the bags and other items. However, Aleki says his wife was far less confident and was rather shocked by the whole incident Having his children in the car was also not ideal, as he would prefer that they had not seen what happened. At the same time, Aleki believes it’s important to set a good example for his children. “They need to learn that the best way to get ahead is to work hard and be honest.”

As a proud Tongan, Aleki says he was disappointed when he realised the man was also Tongan, but says he felt a duty to step in.

“When I see my own people doing something wrong, I cannot stand by, he might be a danger and I needed to stop him.”

Aleki adds that he hopes the man now gets the help he needs to put his life back on the right track.