In light of these developments, Assistant Commissioner of Police with responsibility for Crime (ACP Crime) Joseph Liburd is encouraging business owners and operators to take steps to protect their businesses, staff and earnings.

Over the past several months, in excess of six businesses, including Royal Bank of Canada (Wellington Road Branch), St. Kitts Nevis Anguilla National Bank (Sandy Point Branch), Western Union (West Independence Square outlet), Nagico’s Central Street Branch Office, Gillard’s Gas Station and TDC (Sandy Point Branch) have fallen prey to bandits.

While in some instances, the criminals were unsuccessful in their attempts, in others, they managed to loot undisclosed sums of money. 

ACP Liburd explained that the police have taken note of recent trends and have put measures in place in effort to address them. He however noted that the likelihood of being targeted is significantly reduced if certain measures are adopted.

“We are been patrolling the areas, paying special attention to the business places. We have mapped out the country in various zones, and are seeking to address the concerns of the public including business entities.”

• Even after the establishment is closed, always pay close attention to it. Make a check of the area sometime after closing, if possible.
• Try as much as possible not to keep cash at the businesses, not even in safes.
• All businesses are encouraged to invest in modern and effective security systems.

 The high ranking officer said these measures would assist to some degree in preventing occurrences of break-ins and theft, but should they occur, the measures could assist with detection as well.