Inspector Chris Gawne
ERIN PEARSON
SHOP owners must take action to protect themselves amid soaring burglary rates in Geelong, according to the city’s top cop.
Inspector Chris Gawne urged businesses to “act smart” and reassess their security to avoid the risk of becoming another statistic.
He revealed that Geelong burglaries were up 57 per cent on the same time last year.
“We’re working around the clock and into overtime meeting traders to try to get people more alert on security because prevention is better than cure,” Insp Gawne said.
“A man’s home is his castle and his businesses is his livelihood, so it must be protected.
“Criminals generally target the easiest places, so businesses must step up and avoid leaving large amounts of cash on premises, change departure routines and install security lighting and alarms.”
Gheringhap Street’s Sun-Bo Chinese Restaurant was robbed at knifepoint this week after a failed burglary attempt on North Geelong’s Dick Smith store on Monday night.
Two men fled the Chinese restaurant around 8.40pm with a till from the front counter after one of the men threatened staff with a knife.
Police said almost 20 patrons were present but no one was injured.
Burglars removed roofing to gain entry to the Melbourne Road Dick Smith electronic store in a separate raid, police said.
Police believed the suspects used a knotted garden hose to climb into the building but were unable to carry out bags filled with electronic equipment.
Police were still investigating both incidents when the Independent went to press on Wednesday.
Insp Gawne said tasked operation units were exclusively investigating burglaries around Geelong.
Operation Octopus in April and May charged 34 alleged offenders with burglary-related offences.
Insp Gawne said a subsequent Operation Limeaid began targeting a drug ring but ended arresting seven suspected offenders and charging four with burglary offences.
The Independent reported rising crime across Geelong in both April and May after multiple offenders targeted Belmont businesses and 7-Eleven convenience stores.
Police reported seven robberies of 7-Eleven stores and three hold ups at post offices and a petrol station in April.
Police asked anyone with information to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
