Retired Superintendent of Police and Member of Parliament for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu, has attributed blame to the owner of Cabest Jewellery shop for not prioritizing security following a robbery by armed men over the weekend at Adabraka, Accra. Speaking on Joy News’ AM Show with Benjamin Akakpo on November 4, 2024, Toobu highlighted the importance of proactive security measures, especially for businesses dealing with significant cash transactions.
According to Supt. Toobu, businesses like Cabest Jewellery should seek police protection to mitigate the risk of robbery. He questioned whether the shop owner had approached the police for assistance before the incident, noting that preventive measures could have made a difference.
“They themselves {Business owner} do not take their personal security seriously, and the security of the business is not something they have prioritized,” Toobu stated. “I am asking, have they ever gone to the Inspector-General of Police and requested a permanent police presence for this particular business, knowing that we generate so much cash and could be attractive targets for robbery? Have they ever done that?”
Toobu expressed confidence that a request for security would have been met with action. “I believe if they had made such a request, the IGP would have deployed police officers there day and night to provide security, allowing them to conduct their business safely.”
The retired police officer also called for a swift and thorough investigation by law enforcement, emphasizing the use of modern technology to identify and apprehend the suspects.
The robbery at Cabest Jewellery has heightened concerns among residents, with many pointing out that this is the third time the shop has been targeted. Community members have voiced their fears and called for the establishment of a permanent police facility in Adabraka to deter future crimes and enhance safety.
The incident underscores the need for business owners to take proactive steps in safeguarding their establishments and highlights the growing demand for increased police presence in crime-prone areas of Accra.