Yesterday there were four reported burglaries of businesses in Central Christchurch, two in language schools, says Operation Dentist O/C, Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston.
"Hereford Street in particular has been hardest hit. These burglaries come on top of three other burglaries in Hereford Street last week.
"Beware and take all the care you can," he advises businesses. "Do not assume that anywhere is safe. Handbags from under the receptionist's counter or desk are easily found."
DI Johnston says that personal items such as handbags and laptops are often the targets. He advises businesses to;
o provide facilities for staff to lock their personal belongings away.
o challenge any person seen loitering, especially in areas not for the public or
o asking for an unknown business or staff member
o challenge anyone who does not seem `to fit',
o secure any area where only staff should go
Language schools, where there are always young people coming and going, are obviously being targeted these days. All businesses and Language Schools are advised to check that their doors lock correctly at night.
"Physically check that door locks activate correctly when the staff leave, don't just pull to and expect it to be," he says.