Police hold security talks with Chinese-Owned supermarkets

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — AMID growing concerns over the safety of Chinese-owned supermarkets, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force recently held talks with members of the local Chinese business community to address rising security threats.

Over the past year, several Chinese-operated supermarkets have been targeted by armed robbers. In 2025 alone, at least four such businesses were held up, with perpetrators making off with undisclosed sums of money.

In a statement, the Police Force described the meeting as a “productive engagement,” aimed at developing strategies to reduce robberies, thefts, and other forms of criminal activity affecting these establishments.

Many establishments, particularly those within the community, tend to use cash more frequently than cards, making them popular targets for robberies

Assistant Commissioners of Police James Francis and Travis Rogers led the session, providing a detailed presentation on personal and business security practices that owners can implement.

“The information shared was well received, and the feedback from participants proved valuable to the RSCNPF. We are grateful for the opportunity to engage with this important segment of our business sector and remain committed to ongoing dialogue and partnership,” the police force said

The Police Force added that it intends to hold similar meetings with other business owners and stakeholders across the Federation to address shared concerns and enhance public safety.