The Tribune

By Constable 3011 Makelle Pinder

Armed robbery is one of the most serious and potentially dangerous crimes committed today. A robber commits a hold-up because he or she believes that their profit will be worth the risk. By decreasing the possible profit and increasing the risk of apprehension, potential businesses can reduce their chances of becoming a target.

Businesspersons must face the possibility of robbery on their premises realistically, and they should make security training a high priority.

You can avoid becoming a victim of this particular crime by adopting the following crime prevention measures provided by the Royal Bahamas Police Force National Crime Prevention Office:

Before A Robbery

• Greet everyone who enters your business.

• Keep doors and windows clear of signs and posters to allow good two-way visibility.

• Use video surveillance and make it well known.

• Make bank deposits at least once a day.

• Place a surveillance camera behind the cash register facing the front counter.

• Install an emergency (panic) alarm.

• Make your sales counter clearly visible to observers.

• A clean environment is good for business and uncomfortable for robbers.

• Keep your business well-lit inside and outside

During a Robbery

• Stay calm and don’t resist!

• Do as instructed. Don’t make sudden moves.

• Keep your hands in sight at all times.

• Get a look at the robber but don’t stare.

• If safe - Get a description of the robber’s vehicle and direction of travel.

• Activate the panic alarm ONLY when it’s safe.

• Personal safety first! Money and merchandise are not important.

• Don’t chase or follow the robber out of your place of business. Let the police catch the robber!

After A Robbery

• Close the store and lock the doors.

• Call the police; even if the alarm was activated.

• Don’t touch anything the robber may have touched.

• Ask witnesses to stay until the police arrive.

• Only step outside when the police arrive and contact you via telephone.

• Call your business owner, manager or other designated person.

Tips

• Use a drop safe that is secured to the floor.

• Post signs indicating limited cash on hand.

• Professionally install security cameras to capture the best images of the suspects.

• Trim landscaping for good view into and out of your business.

Should you be a victim of crime, please do not resist but take note of the description of the culprit, eg his appearance, clothing, height, physical details and the direction or mode of escape. Call the police as soon as it is safe to do so.

If you come across any suspicious person(s) loitering around your business or have any information pertaining to any crime, please do not hesitate to contact call the police emergency at ‘919’ or Crime Stoppers at 328-tips (New Providence), 1-300-8476 (Family Islands.