Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 02, 2016 (RSCNPF): A number of burglaries in our communities over the last weeks have raised concerns within the Criminal Investigations Department of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force.
According to Superintendent Charles Smithen, Head of the Department “we have seen an increase in the number of home burglaries in recent weeks. Burglary is a crime of opportunity, in that the burglar looks for an opportunity to enter your property, and in several of these cases, an unlocked window or door provides the chance.” Supt Smithen added, “take away the opportunity and the chances of you becoming the victim of a home burglary is reduced, a burglar does not want to spend too much time on the scene trying to get in.”
“Before leaving your home, ensure all windows and doors are locked. Ensure your property is secured. Put away valuables. Computers and cell phones have been the items taken in many of the cases reported. Don’t leave cash around as well,” said Supt. Smithen. He added, “when at home, ensure your doors are locked, preventing a burglar from just walking in. Before securing for the evening, walk your home, touch and verify that every door and window is locked. Leaving an outside light on can also serve as a deterrent.”
“A burglar will try one door or window, if it’s locked he may try another, but if the second is locked as well, chances are he will leave. Make your property a difficult one to break into,” said the Head of CID.
To ensure the security of your property and that of your neighbours, residents are encouraged to establish a neighbourhood watch. Community vigilance can make a difference, in keeping our communities safe, expressed the Superintendent.
Supt. Smithen also encourages residents to report any suspicious activity they may see in their communities by calling any Police Station or Crime Stoppers, the anonymous hotline at 1-800-8477(TIPS).