Police helping businesses prevent robberies

Aggravated robbery prevention booklet

ACT Policing has launched a new guide book for businesses to help prevent crime and increase the safety of staff and patrons.

The ACT Policing Aggravated Robbery Prevention Booklet focuses on prevention, building security, cash handling, staff training, as well as what to do during and after a robbery.  

Detective Acting Station Sergeant, Morgwn Saunders said businesses can use the strategies in the booklet to minimise the incidence and impact of an aggravated robbery.

“Aggravated robberies are serious and dangerous crimes that can cause long term emotional and psychological distress to victims,” Detective Acting Station Sergeant Saunders said.

“Robbery offenders are motivated by easy money - their aim is to get in and out of the premises as quickly as possible.

“No amount of money, however, is worth risking the life of your staff or your customers.

“Having proactive, well planned and strictly followed procedures such as those found in this booklet can reduce the risk of an aggravated robbery and ensure the safety of those present.

“The booklet is another way ACT Policing is engaging with Canberrans in order to help address and prevent crime in our community.”

Detective Acting Station Sergeant Saunders said it was important for businesses to conduct a thorough security assessment of their premises before an incident occurs.

“A strong approach to prevention is an important aspect of reducing the risk of aggravated robberies,” he said.

“Take some time to conduct a business security assessment using our recommendations. Simple steps such as ensuring your CCTV system is up to date and operating properly can act as a deterrent, or greatly assist a police investigation if an incident occurs.”

The ACT Policing Aggravated Robbery Prevention Booklet can be found at the ACT Policing website.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au

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