Cops urge businesses to bar ski mask wearers amid robbery concerns

Masked criminals posing as customers are sending fresh fear through sections of St Andrew as police warn that the growing use of ski masks is making it harder to track down robbers and shooters.

The St Andrew North police say several recent crimes have involved suspects hiding their identities while pretending to conduct legitimate business before launching violent attacks.

Crime Officer for the division, Deputy Superintendent Glendale Murdock, said the worrying trend is creating major challenges for investigators, even in cases where CCTV footage is available.

Police are now probing a recent case in which a woman was shot and robbed after she allowed a masked individual into her place of business.

Investigators reported that the suspect was granted entry before opening fire and injuring the victim. Although the attack was captured on CCTV, the suspect's covered face has made identification difficult.

Murdock is urging business operators and residents to take stronger precautions to protect themselves.

"We are seeing a pattern where individuals are using ski masks to conceal their identities while pretending to be customers or conducting legitimate transactions. We are strongly advising business operators and residents not to allow anyone wearing a mask or face covering to enter their premises without first removing it. Even with CCTV footage, it is extremely difficult to identify suspects when their faces are fully covered," Murdock told The STAR.

Police are encouraging business owners to introduce strict entry rules, including posting signs requiring customers to remove masks before entering, especially in communities experiencing increased criminal activity.

Law enforcers stressed that the warning is not intended to inconvenience law abiding citizens but is aimed at limiting opportunities for criminals who use anonymity to carry out violent acts.

Residents are also being urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity happening in and around their communities.

Investigations into the recent shooting and robbery are continuing.

As at February 7, the St Andrew North police division recorded three robberies and three break ins. This represents a 63 per cent decline in robberies and an 81 per cent reduction in break ins compared to the same period last year.

- Andre Williams

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