Many convenience stores are often staffed by only a single female worker throughout the night. (Image: MPD01605 from Flickr)
BUSAN, March 29 (Korea Bizwire) – With crimes targeting convenience stores on the rise, the Busan Metropolitan police Agency announced yesterday plans to ramp up security of vulnerable retail business establishments.
South Korea has experienced an increase in crimes targeting convenience stores as of late, and local police forces are now teaming up with major convenience-store chains such as BGF Retail, GS Retail and Korea Seven to stop criminals from taking advantage of the vulnerabilities.
Many convenience stores are often staffed by only a single female worker throughout the night.
New stores that will open from now on will receive help from Busan’s crime prevention officers (CPO) with store layout and the installation of security cameras and emergency bells to tackle crimes more effectively.
For the 1,995 stores already in business in Busan, the police agency revealed plans to bolster security through inspections and better equipment when necessary.
Height measurement marks will be also introduced by the door of all convenience stores to help track down thieves and burglars.
Busan police are also in talks to designate convenience stores as safe havens in case of emergency.
Busan police are teaming up with major convenience-store chains to stop criminals from taking advantage of the vulnerabilities. (Image: Busan Metropolitan police Agency)
If the plans come to fruition, anyone facing the misfortune of running away from criminals will be able to take shelter in a convenience store, and then have the staff call the police for help.
Hyunsu Yim (hyunsu@koreabizwire.com)
