The British Security Industry (BSIA) with the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) have launched a two-minute animation in the run-up to Christmas, about cash-in-transit robberies. Such crime, like others against businesses, can spike at this time of year. Hence the effort to inform the public about the consequences of crime against CIT and the importance of working together to tackle this dangerous crime.
Officers from across the north west, West Midlands and the Metropolitan Police Flying Squad, with the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) and the security industry have launched the animation.
During the Christmas period, officers from the six north west police forces (Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside and North Wales) will be using extra resources and a range of tactics to escort security vehicles as they carry out their normal deliveries. This includes using armed police vehicles escorting CIT on high-risk routes; CCTV monitoring and patrol cars following cash-handling vehicles. All cash containers will include either the forensic marking product Smartwater or a dye, which will be released when they are opened, marking the notes so they are both unusable and traceable.
Nationally, the CIT sector reports success in combating robberies; 66 offenders were convicted and sentenced to more than 500 years in prison since 2018.
You can view the animation on Youtube.
Sarah Staff, Head of SaferCash, BSIA, pictured centre, said: “Although we have seen a reduction in cash in transit robberies in recent years, we are not complacent. We’re committed to working with police forces to make sure criminals don’t see these type of offences as easy ways to make money, because they most definitely are not.
“This animation aims to educate the public about cash in transit robberies, its effects on the victim and on the wider community, and more importantly how members of the public can help catch and convict these criminals, helping to keep their communities safe.”
Also pictured centre is West Midlands Police Assistant Chief Constable Jayne Meir, Commercial Robbery lead for the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC). She said: “I would like to extend my full support to this important and innovative campaign. The safety and security of the men and women who work in the cash in transit industry is paramount and our UK forces are committed to working in partnership with the professional security industry in tackling this area of crime.
“By the public reporting a suspicious incident or criminal action they are assisting in apprehending criminals who have no regard for the effect these crimes have on individuals.”
Chief Inspector Mike Ankers from the ROCU’s Regional Intelligence Unit, said: “Our message to those planning on carrying out cash-in-transit robberies in the run-up to Christmas is clear – we will find you and we will make sure you spend this Christmas and many more to come behind bars away from your family and loved ones.
“Robberies that target cash-in-transit vehicles, banks, post offices and commercial businesses are often violent offences that can result in life-changing mental and physical scars on those who find themselves confronted by these criminals.
“This is by no means a victimless crime. These robberies can cause deep distress to those at the brunt of the attacks, who are just trying to earn an honest living.”
Gareth Skinner chairs the Cash-in-Transit Section, at the BSIA. He said: “We want to spread the message that these aren’t victimless crimes – they are often violent offences that can result in life-changing mental and physical scars on those who find themselves confronted by these criminals
“As more and more people are now using social media for their daily news and updates, this is an ideal opportunity to launch an initiative such as this and ensure we’re reaching the right audience. Our communities can play an important part in helping us all to stay safe.”
Rodger Holden, Director of Business Development at the independent charity Crimestoppers, said: “We know that sometimes people are reluctant to speak up when they know something about crime. It could be due to loyalties to those involved or because of fear of revenge and reprisals.
“Crimestoppers charity is here to help. If you have information, but wish to remain completely anonymous, you can call us on 0800 555 111 or use our anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org. We have always kept our promise of anonymity to everyone who contacts us. Together we can help protect communities.”
All North West Police Forces, with the security industry, will continue to share intelligence and provide assistance for cross-border deliveries.
Reporting any suspicious activity
For a local force call 101. If you prefer not to speak to police directly, you can stay anonymous with the crime-reporting line charity Crimestoppers. Call their 24/7 UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111 or use their anonymous online reporting at Crimestoppers-uk.org. In an emergency, call 999.
