Police urge persons to prioritise safety in market district

Persons are being strongly urged to prioritise safety and follow essential and critical guidelines while navigating the busy downtown market district during the festive Yuletide season.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Area 4, Michael Phipps, reminded persons of the safety and operational measures being undertaken by the police,  during a recent press conference at the offices of the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation, recently.

He encouraged persons to keep their mobile phone, cash and other valuables out of sight while in public spaces.

“If you withdraw large sums of cash from the bank or ABM, secure the bulk of that cash before you go shopping, as you may never know who is watching or following you. We want you to organise your spending cash before you start shopping to avoid displaying large sums of money in public places,” Phipps said.

He further reminded persons not to leave laptops and other electronic devices on the seats of a car while it is unattended.

The law officer noted that where possible, persons are encouraged to walk with someone else, preferably in groups, three or more persons. He noted that criminals are less likely to target persons in groups.

“Choose carefully who you ask for directions when in unfamiliar settings. Be aware of your surroundings, look confident like you know where you’re going, even if you don’t know,” he advised.

Phipps said persons should always take the route they know best, even if there may be shorter alternatives.

 “Don’t walk with hands in pockets and try to keep both hands free. Walk facing the oncoming traffic,” he said.

The Acting Assistant Commissioner also urged parents to closely monitor their children, so they do not get lost. “We see where this happens frequently across all spaces at this time of the year,” he said.

Also, he reminded business operators and owners to contact the police for escort when moving large sums of cash. “We do this escort free of cost,” he said.