Vox pop: Mixed views on using ATMs after gun attack
On the heels of the brazen attack by gunmen on a Beryllium security team in Portmore, St Catherine, on Sunday, Jamaicans have expressed mixed opinions on using automated teller machines (ATMs).
Three Beryllium security guards were shot while in the process of servicing an ATM at Scotiabank on Braeton Parkway. The criminals reportedly made off with more than $20 million.
The incident followed a similar occurrence on February 27,in which another Beryllium team was attacked by gunmen while they were servicing an ATM at Portmore Pines Plaza.
Here are the views of Jamaicans in Half-Way-Tree, St Andrew, with whom the Jamaica Observer spoke on Tuesday.
Nappa: “Of course I am scared because you don’t know if you might just get caught up in a gun attack. It is very risky. Whatever those guys want, they will try to get it — and you don’t know where they will target or when they will strike.”
Simone Lemon: “It is not really a bother to me; I still use it. Most times I use the ones that are inside the bank. What is happening to the security guards is tragic. The companies need to secure them more by giving them better weapons and vehicles.”
Rasta Barber: “Dem nah trouble the ordinary man, is the money truck dem trouble. We should not be afraid but be more alert. The security guards affi step up dem safety measures with better vests and those things.”
Maurice Coleman: “No, because it seems as if the trucks are being targeted. As usual, we still have to be vigilant because anything can happen while you are using the ATM, but I am not fearful.”
Tashay Farrier: “Mi haffi be fearful because you never can tell what can happen. The security companies need more guards and guns but at the same time, it seems as if the gunmen don’t care about that.”
Miss Stewart: “I am more fearful when I see the security trucks. I usually just keep an extra eye out.”
Hinds: “I have no issue using ATMs because we need money. I think ex-soldiers and ex-cops should be hired at those companies, or even weekly gun range practices for the security guards.”
Dee: “You just have to be vigilant. You can’t be fearful because that’s where your money goes and you have to go to the ATM to collect money, so when using it you have to be mindful of those around you. Use with caution and move quickly.”
Nicky-Sue Davis: “Maybe I would not use the ATM if I see the truck there but if the truck is not there, then fine. There is nothing I can do if I am there and a gun attack happens.”
