Fighting back on CIT attacks

CIT companies provide an essential public service by managing the circulation of cash – a process vital to the UK economy. However, in recent years the risk of CIT couriers becoming the victims of armed robbery has increased quite markedly.

Every day, £1.5 billion in cash is being moved around the country, while there is an average of 700 robberies each year (half of them involving firearms). Such attacks cause both physical and mental trauma for the couriers, and can have a significant impact on their families (not to mention members of the public caught in the vicinity of an attack).

The BSIA’s CIT Section is urging the Government and ACPO to treat CIT attacks as an immediate police priority, and to devote more resources towards combating these crimes. This new campaign involves seeking support from the Trade Unions and MPs such that the issue is raised at the highest level.

The seasonal CIT crime reduction initiatives operated by a number of police forces prove the effectiveness of increased resources, but it must be said that short-term initiatives only herald short-term results.

Who’s Safeguarding the Guards?

The GMB-organised fringe event at the recent Labour Party Conference – entitled ‘Who’s Safeguarding the Guards?’ – focused on CIT robberies. It was attended by Hazel Blears MP, the Minister of State for Policing, Security and Community Safety. The MP expressed her concern at the rise in attack numbers, and outlined new guidelines introduced by the Government whereby criminals who assault people engaged in a public service role will receive lengthier sentences from the Courts.

It is important to note that CIT attacks usually constitute a multitude of crimes. They often involve firearms offences, assault, vehicle theft and – subsequent to the event – money laundering. The proceeds of CIT robberies also provide organised crime gangs with a crucial cash injection which may be used to purchase drugs or fuel other serious criminal activity.

Industry has already contributed massive resources to combat robberies and protect members of staff. For their part, CIT companies have invested heavily in security to protect their premises, vehicles and people, but they also need support from other stakeholders in order to significantly reduce the number of attacks their couriers face. This includes banks and retailers taking steps to ensure that the transfer of cash on their premises is as safe as possible, as well as the judiciary ensuring that convicted CIT criminals receive long jail terms.

Although the fringe meeting drew attention to the issues involved in CIT attacks – which is indeed an important step forward – there is clearly much work still to be done if we are to turn word into deed. That will only be achieved by close collaboration between the industry, the Government and the police service.

Visit www.bsia.co.uk/cvit for details.