Two retail burglaries in Teddington

During discussions at the Teddington Business Community meeting, it was evident that security is a real concern for Teddington businesses. Some debate at the meeting included a discussion on CCTV and whether or not this would help Teddington – what do you think – do you think CCTV would be right for Teddington?

Within the last few days a Teddington salon and a Teddington pub have both been subjected to robbery. Do you think criminals see Teddington as a ‘soft target?’

Distraction techniques are commonly used prior to a robbery. Criminals, often in pairs, pretend to stop looking for help or say they want to use a toilet, and then split up once they are inside the shop. One person will talk about a problem they are having or start a discussion. The other person will be somewhere else, looking for property at the back of the shop to steal.

It is always important to be vigilant – if you have a business and if you are a local resident.

If you are out shopping in Teddington, please be careful with your property and keep your belongings safe. Particular care should be taken at banks when you are using the ATMs. Again, distraction techniques are commonly used prior to robbery, such as people stopping you asking for directions or commenting on the bank ATMs not working.

We’ve discovered that this is common practice in Kingston, and that older people are often targeted.

With the extended holidays over Easter and for the Royal Wedding there are many opportunities to be out and about, it’s important to take care at all times. If you are going away, always tell one of your neighbours that your home will be empty and ask them to kindly keep an eye out.