The private sector in Anguilla may need to take steps to put security measures in place or to improve any system it may already have to protect itself from robberies. Times are changing and we must be prepared to deal effectively with this type of crime as it rears its ugly head. We must not wait until it occurs to act but should anticipate it and have in place structures that may help to prevent it and to catch the perpetrators. Some sections of the private sector are equipped with burglar alarm systems but there are circumstances where there is a need for security officers to be employed.

The Police are already thinly stretched, and possibly over-worked, and their limited number does not permit them to be everywhere across the island at any given time. That is one reason for the establishment of the police/community consultative committees whose presence and influence in the various villages may assist the law enforcement officers in their work. The business community cannot rely on the police altogether to protect their properties however much the lawmen would like to do so. It is known that in a few cases the services of Special Constables are used in supermarkets and other places under an arrangement with the Police Commissioner and this appears to be working well. It is clear that some businesses need to have their own security officers who can work in cooperation with the police.

There are a few security companies on the island which may have some of the answers to address the situation. It may simply be a matter that they need to be employed by some of the most vulnerable businesses which can afford to pay for the service. A few hours of guarding the premises of some of the establishments on the island at a reasonable cost may make the difference between loss of property and preserving the name of Anguilla as a place where crime is either under control or low.

It is believed that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry may be able to play a role in various areas of the business community if it were given the opportunity. A present drive by the organisation is for increased membership and payment of dues. If this were to be accomplished to a great extent, the Chamber might be in a position to do a lot more for itself and the private sector. It may be possible through the Chamber to look at the implementation and funding of some general security measures and the employment of personnel to provide the required service where necessary.

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