Beware of imposters and impersonators
Robbers are often nervous and prone to reacting strongly to surprises, which could lead to injury or death.
Fidelity ADT warned business owners against criminals ramping up their efforts to gain from every opportunity they can find.
Posing as customers is an old trick. Small businesses are especially vulnerable because even if they have a security door and buzzer, for example, when a ‘customer’ arrives, they have to open it for them.
Charnel Hattingh, group head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT says: “We are seeing an increase in business robberies, particularly at retail outlets like clothing stores and garage shops, which are easily accessible.
“Business owners must be vigilant, ensure their CCTV is working, and remain vigilant for suspicious activity.
We recommend at least two staff members must always carry hidden panic buttons. Visitors to these outlets must also be especially vigilant. The suspects are after the till money and not out to rob the customers, but it is still a high-alert situation.
“The behaviour of both staff and customers can reduce the chances of a robbery becoming violent,” says Hattingh.
Fidelity ADT offers the following advice:
• Don’t resist. Do as you are told. The robbers are armed, making them to be in control of the situation. It serves no purpose to resist their instructions, as you will place your life and others at risk.
• Relax. Regulate your breathing with long, slow, deliberate breaths. This slows your heart rate and improves concentration, even in the most adverse situations.
• Speak slowly. Don’t shout or raise your voice at the robbers. They are probably more nervous than you are and, therefore, more prone to losing any self-control they may have.
• Don’t make any sudden movements. When you want to do anything – even if it is an instruction from the robber, tell them what you are doing. For example, “I am going to take the keys out of my pocket now,” then slowly do what you said.
• Don’t set off a siren. Activate the alarm only if you can do so secretly or if the alarm is silent. Many armed robberies have turned violent (with hostages taken) because of sirens, putting the robbers into a panic.
• Don’t look the robber directly in the face. The robber may believe you are trying to memorise their features for later identification.
• Give the robbers time to leave. Don’t shout or do anything else until the robbers have left the premises. Don’t try to be a hero. Don’t attempt to prevent the robbers from escaping. A trapped robber is a desperate robber with whom you should not share a space.
