KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Clifford Chambers, has encouraged business owners to work with the security forces to safeguard their operations from criminal victimisation.

Speaking at the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) ‘Biz Social’ recently, ACP Chambers said a recent study showed that 65 per cent of 400 firms sampled reported that they had experienced one or more forms of criminal victimisation. 

He noted that 33 per cent were violently victimised (robbery, extortion and protection), 52 per cent suffered various forms of theft, 50 per cent experienced fraud and seven per cent other forms of criminal victimisation.

“With regard to small businesses, some negative impacts of crime on those businesses are: loss of output caused from reduced hours of operation or workdays arising from outbreaks of violence and in some cases avoidance of some economic activities. There is also the shutdown or relocation of businesses due to crime,” he noted.

Chambers encouraged business operators to undertake the following in partnership with the police: developing a personal acquaintance with the police commander in charge of the location where their business is situated; requesting a security risk and threat assessment of the location and its inhabitants from the police; and implementing technical surveillance (audio and visual capturing devices).

He also encouraged members of the business community to develop relationships with law enforcement agencies in a shared commitment in crime fighting efforts

“Contract the Counter Terrorism and Organised Crime (CTOC) Investigation Branch to set up an anti-extortion strategy and an anti-electronic fraud strategy, both of which have a quick response component attached,” he informed.

The assistant commissioner urged business operators to practise additional measures to protect their enterprises. They included: early closure of businesses; hiring unarmed/armed security guards to regularly patrol the grounds; putting in grilles and special fencing on the premises; installing electronic alarms and internal security systems as well as closed-circuit television (CCTV) with good megapixel quality inside and outside the premises. 

He is also recommending that employers properly vet employees to ensure that they are honest, trustworthy and reliable, noting that in some cases, engaging staff members in the security process may be a necessary security measure.

“Have security drills with staff as is deemed appropriate based on the nature of your business. Make security of your business and employees part of your strategic plan,” the assistant commissioner said.

He also advised business owners to establish security networks among themselves to prevent fraud.

“We have seen several businesses operating on the same strip defrauded by the same persons over and over again. If you have a communication network where you have come in contact with persons as it relates to investigation, arrest, charge or the person has been convicted, share this information among yourselves,” he suggested.

Chambers said the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) continues to work collaboratively with stakeholders to develop strategies to deal with changes in crime trends and provide law enforcement measures to counteract criminal activities.