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Businesses must be wary
Phoenix businesses are urged to exercise greater precautionary measures after a spate of attacks on businesses and business people in recent times.
Following these incidents, KZN SAPS said that they were concerned with the increase in crime committed against small businesses, saying that it was evident that poor or inadequate security had made small business targets.
According to KZN SAPS Senior Superintendent, Jay Naicker, crime pattern analysis indicates an increase in armed robberies when small businesses pay workers their weekly wages. Such businesses pay their workers directly, making them vulnerable to attacks.
“We urge businesses to arrange for their workers' wages to be paid into their bank accounts,” said Supt. Naicker. The same advice is being sent out to stokvels as well as companies that will be paying their employees their annual bonuses. “It is not advisable to be carrying large sums of money in public; however, businesses that are forced to carry large sums of money are urged to employ more stringent measures when transporting cash. Owners of small businesses are urged to be vigilant at all times and report any suspicious activities to the local police or Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” said Supt. Naicker. Another concern highlighted by police was the increase in robberies of individuals withdrawing cash at banks and other financial institutions.
The modus operandi employed by perpetrators is to follow people as they leave the bank and rob them of their money en route to their destinations. “We want to warn the public to always be alert when drawing large sums of cash. Always check if you are being observed or followed. Report suspicious individuals to your local police or 10111,” concluded Supt. Naicker.
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