| BSAI statistics show attacks against cash-in-transit courier remains a serious issue |
2008 saw 1000 attacks against cash-in-transit couriers, a reduction of 6% compared to 2007. However the second half of the year saw attacks rise significantly regardless of the ongoing commitment of Police, Home Office and the industry to prevent this crime.
John Bates, BSIA Chief Executive, comments: "Our partnership work saw a real reduction in CIT crime in the first half of 2008 and this was testament to the commitment of all involved who are determined to combat this serious crime. The rise in attacks in the second half of the year is a worrying trend."
"We recognise that with such a violent and prolific crime, all stakeholders will need to remain one step ahead of the criminal in order to achieve a permanent reduction and our work to prevent the crime will need to evolve as the criminal's tactics change. Working with the Police, we continue to analyse criminal behaviour and are taking proactive steps to reduce the risks to cash-in-transit couriers, customers and the public."
"Reducing CIT attacks was never going to be an easy task. However two things are certain - more resources than ever before are being invested into preventing CIT attacks; and because of advances in technology and increased intelligence on the crime, the criminals involved stand a significant chance of getting caught and prosecuted."
GMB National Officer for the Security Industry, Jude Brimble, says: "It is essential that all stakeholders continue to work together in a coordinated effort to fight crime and reduce the number of violent attacks on CIT workers, who are just doing their job. GMB is determined to play its role to secure the safety of our members, who do a valuable and essential job - every worker has the right to do that job without fear of violence and assault - and those committing these offences should expect to be dealt with severely."