THE fight is being stepped up against thieves heading for Chester’s shops and businesses.
Chester Against Business Crime (CABC) has attracted more than 200 members, with retailers, police and other organisations quickly alerted by the National
Business Information System (NBIS) to criminal activity in the region and how to deal with it.
The city has been plagued by shoplifting in recent years, with thieves reportedly costing Chester’s businesses millions of pounds a year. But CABC is helping combat concerns, with members linked thanks to a new digital radio system and warned of thieves heading for the city.
Since the scheme was introduced, intelligence has led to a number of travelling criminals being identified and brought before the courts.
Rita Waters, chief executive of project organisers Chester Renaissance, said: “Chester is open for business and we are ready to welcome visitors to our fabulous city. However, that welcome doesn’t apply to thieves. Chester is a very safe place to reside and visit and we will do everything we can to make it an even safer city.
“The new information management system we have employed will help us do that and help our retail shops, in particular, maintain profits.”
Chester’s businesses, Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC) and Cheshire Police are all involved in the self-funded proactive partnership, which is building links with crime-fighters across the north-west.
Bob Lelliott, CABC manager, said: “The main advantage NBIS has over other technology is the ability to share information with other partnerships that use the system. Neighbouring towns and cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, Bolton and Blackpool are all using the system, which means we can exchange information quickly and easily on criminal activity in the region.
“Being aware of the latest scams enables us to better advise our retailers and local businesses on what behaviour to be aware of and how best to protect themselves.”
Mr Lelliott revealed the system has helped deal with anti-social behaviour offences, such as shop assistants being verbally abused.
He added: “While this type of behaviour might be considered too minor to involve the police by some retailers, it must not be tolerated and needs to be logged appropriately and the information collated for future action if required.
Weekly CABC information meetings are attended by representatives from the police, CCTV operations, the Chester business community and anyone with a vested interest in the scheme, with information gathered to help the city’s fight against crime.