By JASMIN BONIMY ~ Guardian Staff Reporter ~ jasmin@nasguard.com:
Police yesterday reported a sharp increase in the number of robberies and house breaking after 66 thefts were reported last week.
According to Superintendent Leon Bethell, those robberies were reported in New Providence, Grand Bahama, and Abaco. He added that on average only 20 robberies are reported each week in the northern district of The Bahamas.
In addition, he told the press during an afternoon press conference yesterday that three quarters of those thefts occurred in New Providence - particularly in the south western, south eastern and The Grove districts.
Bethell said those 66 thefts took place between January 24 to February 1 during the day time hours, when home owners were away from their residences.
"We are here to bring to the attention of the public a trend that we are noticing recently, that a number of criminal persons are targeting people's homes and businesses, breaking in, stealing and raiding the establishments.
"We have carried out an investigation and we have decided after our intelligence that there are a number of persons we should target now to try to bring some relief to members of the community."
Given last week's sharp increase, Bethell said police believe several criminal rings are carrying out the thefts.
"We have identified several rings," said Bethell. "These persons are not operating from any one area. They may go from area to area, take people's property and go and sell them in another area.
"They are not going to remain in one particular area, so they can strike anywhere. That is why we want all sectors of the public to be aware they are moving about, sometimes on foot and sometimes in vehicles."
According to the newly-appointed head of the National Crime Prevention Office, Superintendent Stephen Dean, flat screen televisions and laptops are the items of choice for criminals who target homes.
He added that police are also noticing an increasing trend involving drug addicts selling electronics in exchange for narcotics from drug dealers.
"We believe that these persons use house breaking as a springboard to get involved in serious crime," said Dean. "Intelligence shows us that persons who are involved in serious crime have graduated from house breaking.
"So we are taking a proactive approach this year, because we believe when we take them off the streets we will be able to minimize armed robberies and homicides."
Dean called on members of the public to help police in solving the robberies.
He also sent out a stern warning to those who purchase stolen goods.
"Members of the public who are buying these stolen items, we are saying to you that you will be dealt with once we get you in custody," said Dean.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 911, 919 or Crime Stoppers at 328-TIPS.
Wednesday February 3 2010
