CBD butchery falls prey to robbers

As busy as the end of every month is, so are the criminals, as one of the city’s butcheries became a target of robbery over the weekend.

According to the information received, the complainant was inside the shop at approximately 08:20 on Sunday, October 2 when an unknown man armed with a firearm approached him.

The alleged robbery occurred after the suspects told the complainant to go down, and then asked where the cash office was because they needed money, and the victim replied that they didn’t have the keys to the safe.

The suspects are believed to be four in number, and they fled with an undisclosed sum of money.

The manager couldn’t comment on the incident.

Captain Eddie Hall, communications officer at the Witbank Police Station drafted a few crime prevention tips for businesses.

These tips will ensure that employees are kept safe and know what to do when such incidents occur.

The following security measures protect offices and stores from robbery, increases the safety of staff and customers, secures business assets, as well as provides peace of mind.

1) Stay Alert

Be aware of what is happening inside and around your business at all times. Act fast with suspicious activity. Stay informed about local crimes so that staff can be put on high alert or added security measures can be put in place if required.

2) Train Your Staff

It’s important to share robbery prevention and response guidelines with your staff so that they are informed. Always have at least two employees open and close the business; these times are especially prone to robbery due to low staffing and typically high amounts of cash on hand. Staff should be made aware of which information should not be revealed to inquiring minds. Staff should be encouraged to report suspicious activity and told to never try and handle a potentially dangerous situation.

3) Ensure Visibility

Make sure your business is well-lit on the inside and outside. Key areas include all entry-ways and windows. Burnt out bulbs should be replaced right away. Scan the area for obstacles that cast shadows at different times of the day (i.e. trees). All areas of your business should be clearly visible ‒ especially at night.

4) Don’t Store Excess Cash in the Register

Cash registers should not store large amounts of cash. Bank deposits should be made often, only during business hours and never at routine times. If robbers see your staff storing large bills in the register, consider that an invitation. In fact, more important than limiting visibility of the cash register content is maintaining the lowest possible levels of cash at all times. With low financial rewards, potential robbers are not as enticed.

5) Install Security Devices

Alarm systems and security cameras should be installed and announced using signage. Do not keep security measures a secret as these can be effective deterrents.

Share your news tips via: Telephone: 013 656 2490, Email: info@witbanknews.co.za

Or follow us on WITBANK NEWS platforms: Instagram, Twitter Witbank News App Facebook page Witbank News Breaking