Cash stolen during bar break-in

(CNS): A local West Bay Road bar has lost several thousand dollars in cash after burglars broke in on Boxing Day and police who would not name the bar for fear of repeat offences, are urging businesses to tighten security and not to keep large sums of cash on the premises. Police said that in the last month alone four condo offices along West Bay Road have also been broken into. “Prevention is always better than cure,” said Chief Inspector Angelique Howell who is calling on business owners to work with the police.

“The police have their part to play, but so do business owners. Protecting your property and letting people know you have security measures in place by using clear signage could stop you becoming a victim. We need to work together,” Howell added.

AS a result of the recent robberies the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) is calling on all businesses to look at how they can reduce their chances of becoming a victim and say they should never leave large amounts of cash on the premises. Police are advising business owners to use adequate security measures such as deadbolts, alarms and ensure premises are well lit. As well as securing all windows and doors police say owners should consider installing tape recorded CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) and if they do to change the tapes regularly and ensure date and time stamps are correct. Police also noted that clear signageand obvious cameras can help deter a crime. The taped footage can help solve a crime should you fall victim.

Officers also advise peopleto look at their premises from a robber’s point of view and look for weak spots and ask themselves how easy would it be to gain entry. Good housekeeping pays. Untidy properties are soft targets for thieves. Keep trees and shrubbery well maintained so as to maintain good natural surveillance and visibility – don’t give criminals the opportunity to work out-ofsight. Keep desirable goods near to cash registers and away from exits, to consider locking them in cabinets and to use a safe. Police also say marking your assets with an ultraviolent invisible pen will assist with recovery should anything be taken.

Anyone with information about crime taking place in the Cayman Islands should contact their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 (TIPS). All persons calling crime stoppers remain anonymous, and are eligible for a reward of up to $1000, should their information lead to an arrest or recovery of property/drugs.