PREVENTION TIPS IN THE EVENT OF AN ARMED ROBBERY

The Sint Maarten Police Force is doing its utmost to protect the community from all class of criminal activities. Unfortunately armed robberies do occur and they are criminal acts that have a serious impact on victims as well as the public at large. Believing that prevention is better than a cure ,the Sint Maarten Police Force has listed precautions that will be of use to all households and citizens in general.

Precautions citizens should:

1.Always be alert and observe the immediate environment. Anything out of the ordinary ; suspicious people, vehicles etc should be reported to the police (911) without hesitation. along with a good description of the suspicious people or vehicle . Good observation is only possible if the business and surrounding areas are well lit, broken lights should be repaired or replaced with new ones.

2. As little cash as possible should be kept in the store , retaining a minimal “float” in the cash-points. Make it a point to take money to safer places [ for instance a bank ] on a regular basis. In this way, in an eventual robbery, the robbers will not have gained a great deal.

3.The store  should  close at the hour that’s on the permit.The last,late  customers should not be allowed entry ; they are often the culprits who steal the money earned during the entire day. 

4. If  the opportunity arises,security video cameras should be purchased in order to  record whoever comes into the store. The images recorded on the cameras are important in assisting the police investigation.

When, in spite of all the precautions that have been taken, a robbery still occurs, the Sint Maarten Police Force offers the following  guidance :

When the robbery is taking place

Do’s

  • Stay calm, a calm person is a better ( and safer ) observer.
  • Personal safety should be guarded. at all times.
  • The robber(s) are often jumpy and nervous and need to be reassured that their orders will be followed and obeyed. Signs of cooperation are key.
  • Orders should be followed calmly and precisely. 
  • Any movements should be slow, calm and deliberate. The robber should be advised of any possible movement in advance.
  • The alarm should be hit when it is safe to do so.
  • If possible, security should be called in addition to having hit the alarm. The right time to alert bystanders should also be taken into consideration.They can assist by, for example, calling the police or taking a good look at the suspect. Two pairs of eyes see more than one.
  • Focus should be on observing the surrounding area and movements and not on the weapon. Details about the robber, the means and direction of the escape should be noted if possible. Information is very important for forensics and further investigation.

Don’ts

  • Attempts to resist are dangerous and should be avoided. 
  • Although difficult, outward panic should be avoided.
  • Any  screams, gestures or any action that will call attention to the situation, must be be done after careful thought and consideration. The right timing is important. 
  • The assumption that a gun is not real, not loaded, or that a young and innocent looking robber will not shoot is a false one.
  • Offering or volunteering  more than is demanded should be avoided.
  • Sudden movements that may anger the robber or cause them to panic are to be avoided at all cost.

After the robbery has occurred:

  1. The police should be called as soon as possible  and the scene should be secured to protect any evidence.Doors should be locked and people kept away from  the areas that the robbers were in and secure any and all evidence that may have been left behind by the suspects. Touching anything the robber has touched will interfere with the forensic team’s work in their investigation.
  2. Immediately write down information about the incident and robbers specifically.
  3. Write down exactly what was seen and have anyone who had seen the event do the same. Witnesses should be asked to stay until the police  arrive.
  4. Only record factual information. Guesswork is dangerous as is comparing witness statement with another. The more factual information the police have is better for their investigation. 
  5. Get as much information about the escape without attempting to go after them
  6. What means did they use?
  7. What direction did they go?
  8. Were there any accomplices ?
  9. If they used a car, what are the make, model, and colour or tag number?
  10. If people, who saw what happened,cannot stay get their name, address and telephone number for the police. They might be important witnesses who can help us catch the perpetrators.

What to tell 911?

  1. We have been robbed.
  2. Identify yourself, make very clear where you are.
  3. Stay on the line and answer the questions the police officer asks you 

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