New radio scheme to combat crime
A new pilot scheme to clamp down on shop thefts has been launched in Harold Hill.
Twelve retailers have been given hand-held radios to help combat crime and share information about shoplifters operating in the area.
The new radios should help cut down on the theft of items like meat and coffee and generally reduce anti-social behaviour.
The stores have been working in partnership with the police and Havering’s community safety team and the new initiative means they will be able to communicate much more easily and quickly.
Councillor Viddy Persaud, Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Safety, said:
“We already have successful town link schemes in place in Romford, Hornchurch and Upminster. The introduction of this scheme in Harold Hill will continue our aim of tackling crime and the fear of crime. It is a great example of working together with residents and businesses, so we can help each other and as a result, have a safe borough to live, work and go to school in. By encouraging residents and representatives from different groups and areas of the borough, we can get a clear picture of how we can help each other and as result have a safe borough.”
Louise Gidden, duty manager at Sainsbury’s Harold Hill, said:
“We want to get better at communicating with other stores and improve morale so that there is better security for us all. We are all facing the same difficulties and the town radios mean we can be there for each other and share information which can help to prevent crime in our stores."
Inspector Richard Carter, Neighbourhoods Inspector, said:
“The introduction of radios will help shops to respond quickly to incidents by sharing information and will send a clear message to thieves that the stores and retailers are fighting back.”