Two robberies and an attempted robbery, all in the space of half-hour and within short distances of each other, have caused police public relations officer Inspector David Welch to urge business owners who open late at night to install closed-circuit cameras outside their businesses.
Last Wednesday night, Kentucky Fried Chicken in Collymore Rock, Harry’s Corner Store at the corner of Brittons X Road and Brydens Avenue, and the Covenant Supermarket on Dayrell’s Road were all held up by a masked gunman, who made off with sums of cash – so far undisclosed – from two of the businesses.
Welch, in commenting on the unfortunate incidents, said some owners invested in cameras only for inside their businesses, but noted the closed-circuit television cameras could also be useful on the outside, especially if enforced by proper lighting in the area so as to enhance images provided at night.
The inspector also warned those operating late at night to be more vigilant about those entering and leaving their stores and about any suspicious activities.
“Usually these persons will come in and look around and note when there are not many customers around and then return.
“If the unfortunate incident should occur, though, I’m asking those on duty to take note of the colour [of the] clothing the person is wearing, what direction the person escaped and by what method,” he advised.
He then told businesses that the next step was to close immediately after a robbery, dial 211, check on staff and always have a plan that included counselling for staff.
On Wednesday, just around 8:12 p.m., a masked gunman walked up to the Kentucky Fried Chicken Drive Thru at Collymore Rock, pointed a gun at the cashier and demanded money. The cashier fled from the window, at which point the gunman ran away empty-handed.
Less than 20 minutes later, around 8:30 p.m., a masked gunman entered Harry’s Corner Store on the corner of Brittons X Road and Bryden’s Avenue and demanded money at gunpoint.
Owner Elias Harry handed over the money, after which the robber pulled a chain from the neck of a customer and escaped with that as well.
At about 8:45 p.m., a masked gunman also entered the Covenant Supermarket on Dayrell’s Road, again pointing a gun at the cashier and demanding money. She too handed over the contents of the till, and the robber fled.
