Crime fears as business premises sit empty
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THERE are fears that empty work premises are potential easy targets for thieves and vandals during lockdown.
In Moray one security firm said it anticipated a rise in crime and had seen a big rise in requests from local businesses.
Meanwhile, the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) has issued a warning following a spate of attacks across Scotland with commercial premises sitting empty and a lack of potential witnesses on the streets.
Glen Cadwallader, managing director at Mulben-based Moray Security, said: "We carry out static guarding services whereby we have Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensed guards positioned on site at premises 24 hours a day.
"That service has seen a significant increase in the last three weeks as hotels and building sites are mothballed.
"As yet we have not seen a noticeable increase in criminality – but we are are anticipating it."
As part of a series of free webinars organised by the SBRC, experts across policing, fire and rescue and security will be coming together to help advise businesses of the risks and dangers.
David MacCrimmon is seconded to SBRC from Police Scotland as its lead for serious and organised crime and counter-terrorism and will be available to speak with concerned business owners and keyholders at the session, which takes place tomorrow, April 16, at 10am.
He said: "With most of us stranded in our homes, the clear and obvious place that burglars, arsonists and vandals will sadly be looking to will be our empty offices, clubs, bars and shops.
"This could range from a one-off break-in to steal alcohol from a bar, to an organised effort to steal valuable assets.
"But businesses can limit their exposure to the risk – and there are reasonable steps they can still be taking to protect their premises while sticking to lockdown advice."
The session will cover tips on what to remove from the premises, what to leave in windows, as well as how and when to safely visit.
To join the webinar, register at https://bit.ly/3efzHkJ.
