Police have warned that eMalahleni businesses are prime targets, especially at the end of the month, after three business robberies occurred on three consecutive days.

During a robbery in Klipfontein on July 29, three suspects posed as customers when they walked into the business. A victim was then threatened with a firearm, tied up with cable ties, and searched. A second victim, who walked from the bathroom was also tied up.

Robbers stole an undisclosed amount of money and cellphones.

On July 30 at Elpaso two suspects allegedly robbed a supermarket. It is alleged that a workers was ordered to lie on the floor while robbers got away with an undisclosed sum of money, meat, and cellphones.

The third incident took place in Ben Fleur on July 31, when a customer who alleged that he came in to the store to install a screen protector, turned out to be a criminal. It is believed that when the suspect had to pay, he pointed a firearm at the complainant. More armed men then entered the store. The victim was tied up with cable ties and the robbers stole cellphones from the store.

Captain Eddie Hall, communications officer at the Witbank Police Station drafted a few crime prevention tips for businesses:

1. Stay alert

Always be aware of what is happening inside and around your business. Act fast when spotting suspicious activity. Stay informed about local crimes so that staff can be put on high alert or added security measures can be put in place, if required.

2. Train your staff

It’s important to share robbery prevention and response guidelines with your staff so that they are informed. Always have at least two employees open and close the business; these times are especially prone to robbery due to low staffing and typically high amounts of cash on hand. Staff should be made aware of which information should not be revealed to inquiring minds. Staff should be encouraged to report suspicious activity and never try and handle a potentially dangerous situation on their own.

3. Ensure visibility

Make sure your business is well-lit on the inside and outside. Key areas include all entryways and windows. Faulty light bulbs should be replaced right away. Scan the area for obstacles that cast shadows at different times of the day (i.e. trees). All areas of your business should be clearly visible ‒ especially at night.

4. Do not store excess cash in the register

Cash registers should not store large amounts of cash. Bank deposits should be made often, only during business hours and never at routine times. If robbers see your staff storing large bills in the register, consider that an invitation. In fact, more important than limiting visibility of the cash register content is maintaining the lowest possible levels of cash at all times. With low financial rewards, potential robbers are not as enticed.

5. Install security devices

Alarm systems and security cameras should be installed and announced using signage. Do not keep security measures a secret as these can be effective deterrents.