Campaign aims to tackle crime against commercial outlets
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Members of the public are being urged to help Crimestoppers Scotland tackle crime against commercial outlets that remain shut because of the coronavirus crisis.
The charity has launched a campaign called #ClosedtoCrime and is urging people to report any suspicions to ensure business are able to open when safe to do so.
A spokesperson for Crimestoppers Scotland said: "As local shops and businesses try to cope with the devastating financial impact of the pandemic, the last costly disruption they need is having premises ransacked, with essential items or equipment damaged or stolen.
"It’s not just break-ins that affects businesses. Fly-tipping and fire-raising can seriously impact a company’s ability to reopen. For some, it could be the final straw.
"Our #ClosedtoCrime campaign aims to raise awareness and drive people to report what they know about crime against local businesses, from shops to company premises, factories to warehouses. They play a crucial role in the fabric of society – indeed, many staff in these businesses are now classed as key workers providing essential services."
Information received by Crimestoppers has helped stop planned break-ins, has made communities safer and has brought people to justice. The charity is asking for information about the following:
- Someone who has planned or is planning to commit a burglary against a business
- Planned break-ins – where and when?
- Who’s selling stolen goods, and where?
- Large-scale fly-tipping (such as lorries dumping rubbish) and hazardous waste
Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at www.Crimestoppers-uk.org
Rodger Holden, director of business development at Crimestoppers, said: “Local businesses play an essential role in providing services and employment to the local and wider community.
“But as shops, warehouses and factories are closed or struggling to return to normal with reduced opening hours due to the pandemic, criminals are exploiting the crisis by breaking in to commercial premises.
"Fire-raising attacks and fly-tipping are also incredibly harmful as the company has to incur significant costs. This could affect their future stability even further.
“You can help keep shops and local industry open for business but #ClosedtoCrime.
“Please keep your eyes and ears open, and if you see or hear anything, or know someone involved in commercial burglary, arson or fly-tipping, please speak up. People’s jobs and local services depend on it. If you know something, please contact our charity and tell us what you know while staying 100 per cent anonymous.”
