Cayman’s Chamber of Commerce is working to raise reward funds for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible for a recent string of robberies.
Wil Pineau, the CEO of the chamber, said the organisation was “deeply concerned” by the recent robberies targeting jewellery stores and businesses in tourist areas and George Town.
He added, “These incidents, particularly those occurring in broad daylight, are troubling for merchants, employees, residents and visitors alike.”
He was speaking after Governor Jane Owen and Premier André Ebanks issued a joint statement on 15 Dec. condemning the recent incidents of robberies.
Pineau said the Chamber backed police efforts, adding, “We fully support the increased police presence and investigative measures announced by Commissioner Kurt Walton and we welcome the clear commitment from Governor Jane Owen and Premier André Ebanks that these matters are being taken seriously at the highest levels.”
Pineau, speaking on 16 Dec, emphasised Cayman remained a safe place to live in and to visit.
He said, “These criminal acts neither reflect who we are as a country nor the values on which our islands are built.
“We will continue to work closely with the government, law enforcement and the private sector to support practical measures that protect our communities and commercial districts.
Pineau added, “Everyone deserves to feel safe while shopping for gifts, welcoming visitors and going about daily life.
“Keeping our islands safe is a shared responsibility and the Chamber remains committed to doing our part.”
Recent crimes include robberies at two stores in George Town in recent days.
A Main Street business was hit by two masked men, one carrying what appeared to be a firearm on 12 Dec. at about 1:50pm and demanded cash but were unable to access a staff area so robbed a customer of money before fleeing on foot.
A jewellery store on George Town was targeted the next day. Two men, one armed with what appeared to be a handgun, entered the store and smashed display cases and escaped with jewellery.
No one was injured in the two incidents.
A machete-wielding masked man carried out a robbery at a convenience store on 5 Dec.
In addition, two tourists were targeted on Seven Mile Beach in the space of just four hours on 3 Dec.
Pineau said, “As we move through the this busy holiday shopping period, we urge all merchants and customers to remain alert, practice heightened security and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately. Timely information can make all the difference.”
The effort to raise reward funds for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the recent robberies is being done in partnership between Cayman Crime Stoppers and Chamber members.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the reward fund is encouraged to contact Pineau at [email protected] or call 743-9122.
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Why would anyone contribute to the reward? The police should do their job and maybe security guards should take a concealed carry class.
We are quickly being divided by this government that is in place so sadly we may see more of this.
It is unfortunate that we have to pay people to perform what is a civic duty.