BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WHILE experiencing a notable decline in gun-related offences from the latter part of 2011, the Federation still struggles to deal with the causes and effects of larceny-related activities.
It seems – especially in recent times – there has been an upsurge of such illegalities and the business community has been the largest target.
The advice given by the St. Kitts Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CIC) to these businesses is to invest in electronic security systems and employee training.
“The Chamber urges its members and the business community in general to review and to the best extent possible to upgrade the security of their individual businesses and particularly to install cameras and other electronic equipment and lighting which will deter would be invaders and assist the police in their evidence gathering and other investigation of crime. Members are also urged to initiate or improve training of their employees in awareness and safety precautions.”
But is this enough?
Only last week, two young ladies – dubbed the “Beauty Cream Bandits” – were caught red-handed in their attempt to pilfer a $27.95-jar of Sissy fat burning, anti-cellulite, anti-stretch mark cream from Lucky Cosmetics located at The Circus, Basseterre.
And prior to that, two individuals – a local woman and a Guyanese man dubbed the “Cheese Bandits” – were caught, following a sting incidence where they stole cheese and salami from four supermarkets in the Basseterre area.
Most – if not all of these supermarkets – are fitted with security systems. But oddly enough, it did not dissuade the Cheese Bandits, the Beauty Cream Bandits, and others who have executed their criminal plans, from doing so.
SKNVibes spoke with a number of business owners and operators from across the Basseterre area who have indicated that within the past year alone they have suffered losses to the tune of thousands of dollars which could not be recouped.
While one clothing storeowner told this media house that her losses are so numerous that she has lost count, a beauty store informed that only in the past months it has lost approximately $5000. Others, this publication understands, have lost tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise from single incidents.
A clothing boutique owner expressed to this publication that she has invested in a security system which would be shortly installed but questioned whether that would have any effect, especially since the thieves are now more brazen, stealing items from under the very noses of the business owners and operators.
In furtherance to its suggestion, the CIC is also urging its members to impress upon those with whom they come in contact to lead more responsible lives.
“The Chamber is conscious that full attention must be given to the causes of crime and to reversing those trends which have led to the criminalization and anti-social behaviour of far too many of our young men. The Chamber commits collectively to this cause and urges its members to assist individually by influencing and having their colleagues, relatives and employees to be more responsible parents and citizens.”
