Extra security for Cash in Transit over Christmas
Criminals are being warned that strong measures are in place to prevent Cash in Transit robberies in the run up to, and during the festive season.
Police forces across the UK, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), SaferCash and other partner agencies will again work together to safeguard cash collections & deliveries from robbery.
Traditionally, delivery and collection of cash to banks and businesses increase at this time of year, in line with the demands placed by the UK spending public.
Police officers will employ both high-visibility and covert patrols on the ground and in some cases, will escort security vehicles as they carry out their duties.
Additional tactics will include overt and covert CCTV monitoring, patrol cars following cash-handling vehicles and of course, cash containers utilised by the industry include a dye or DNA marker which is released if they are forcefully opened.
However, these robberies are by no means a victim-less crime and they can cause deep distress to those at the brunt of these attacks - who are after all, just trying to earn an honest living.
Robberies that target CIT vehicles, banks, post offices, and commercial businesses are very often extremely violent. They can result in life-changing mental and physical scars for those who find themselves confronted by these criminals.
Rob Johnson, Risk Director at Loomis UK commented: “Loomis and the wider Cash in Transit industry work very closely with UK police forces and initiatives such as this aimed at targeting criminals who try to commit Cash in Transit crime. They play a very important part in reducing attacks on our staff.”
“Loomis use cutting-edge technology in vehicles and equipment - designed not only to protect our staff, but also to help the Police with their investigations, often resulting in arrest, successful prosecution, and lengthy sentences for Cash in Transit criminals. Attacks on CIT crews are often linked to serious organised crime and as such, it is not unusual for sentences of 15 to 20 years to be handed down.”
The public are asked to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity by dialling 101 or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.