Business Operators in St. John’s Demand Increased Security After String of Pre-Dawn Break-Ins
Business operators in St. John’s City are expressing deep concern and frustration following a series of pre-dawn break-ins that occurred on Thursday.
The recent incidents have heightened fears about safety and security, with many business owners calling for immediate action to prevent further crimes.
Local proprietors are unanimous in their call for enhanced police presence and surveillance in and around the city. They argue that without a visible and active law enforcement presence, their businesses—and their personal safety—are at risk.
“These robberies are happening in broad daylight, and it’s really concerning for us,” said one business owner who preferred to remain anonymous.
“We’re asking the government to take more precautionary measures, like increasing police patrols in St. John’s, especially during closing hours. It would give us a greater sense of security.”
Another local business owner, described the growing unease among both business operators and customers. She noted that walking the streets of St. John’s has become increasingly uncomfortable, with many constantly looking over their shoulders. The situation has compelled her to invest in additional security measures.
“We’ve installed more security cameras, which is, of course, an extra cost for us,” she explained. “We’ve also hired security personnel to patrol the area. It’s all for the safety of our customers and ourselves.”
Some business operators, speaking off-camera, suggested even more drastic measures, such as military patrols in business districts and a mandatory installation of surveillance cameras by all businesses. They also called on the government to ensure that every street in the city is equipped with functional surveillance systems to help identify perpetrators and deter future crimes.
“It’s overwhelming,” said one operator, who expressed frustration with the current state of security in St. John’s. “We can’t take any more. We need more police presence, we need cameras, and we need the existing cameras on the streets to be activated. This would help us feel safer and more confident to conduct our business.”
The operators of Print Express, a local business that has been targeted twice in the past year, echoed these concerns. They, like others in the area, are making a desperate plea to authorities to address the escalating crime situation.
As the situation continues to develop, the business community in St. John’s is hoping that their calls for enhanced security will be heard and acted upon by local authorities.
Until then, many remain on high alert, taking whatever measures they can to protect their livelihoods.
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