Pharmacy robberies on rise across Calgary, say police
There have been 21 reported robberies since September
Calgary police say two pharmacies were robbed at gunpoint on Tuesday, and pharmacy thefts have been on the rise for several months.
According to a release, there have been 21 reported pharmacy robberies across Calgary since September.
No employees have been physically injured during the robberies.
Police say suspects usually approach the pharmacist by brandishing a firearm before walking behind the counter to take drugs and cash.
Drugs that are taken range from cough syrup to codeine.
Police say detective are looking into whether this is a general crime trend across the city or if several individuals are working together.
Pharmacy owners and employees are advised to follow these tips compiled by police:
- Keep safes locked at all times.
- Minimize amount of cash and drugs readily available on site.
- Test security cameras to make sure they are working and recording a quality image.
- Position at least one camera at sight line of patrons.
- Place height strip tape on the interior side of the main entrance door.
- Keep any doors separating the pharmacy from the store locked.
- Utilize a panic alarm for employees.
Anyone with information about these pharmacy robberies, including potential suspicious persons in the area at the time, is asked to call the police non-emergency number at 403-266-1234 or contact Crime Stoppers.