National

Police Say Criminals Exploit Holiday Complacency

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Inspector Jerard Culmer is warning owners to take a hard look at their daily routines, especially when it comes to moving money this holiday season.

Published

2 months ago

December 14, 2025

Kendeno Knowles

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – With more customers, more cash, and longer business hours, police say the holiday season brings heightened risks for businesses. Inspector Jerard Culmer is warning owners to take a hard look at their daily routines, especially when it comes to moving money.

Inspector Jerard Culmer, Communications Unit, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“If you can afford it, try to get an armored service. If not, you could reach out to your police station and the officers in your community and ask them to assist you.”

Inspector Culmer says business owners should never announce when they are making bank drops, should avoid wearing company logos, and should switch routes, times and even vehicles when possible. He also says how money is carried matters.

Inspector Jerard Culmer, Communications Unit, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“Please take alternate routes. If you have to do it on your own and just switch up the hours, switch the routes. If you could even change cars, I would encourage you to go straight to the bank. Don’t make a stop by your friend’s house or to get something to eat, because all that could play a part in people targeting you.”

Culmer is urging businesses to pay closer attention to who they allow inside their stores, particularly during busy hours.

Inspector Jerard Culmer, Communications Unit, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“Do not let members of the public into your store if they are wearing masks, shades, hoodies or even hats because therefore they may have ulterior motives.”

Inside the business, Culmer says security does not stop at the front door. Camera systems should be operational, blind spots should be cleared, and staff should follow clear procedures.

With many businesses hiring temporary workers for the season, Culmer says employee vetting is critical.

Inspector Jerard Culmer, Communications Unit, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“Innocently, go home and start talking about their work and how their work is running, and someone else may take that information and then use that for criminal activities. So the person themselves as an employee may be innocent, but they’re taking this information home or in other social settings and then innocently providing that information to the criminal element.”

Inspector Culmer says disgruntled former employees can also pose a risk, and business owners should not hesitate to involve police if threats are made.

And whether you are a business owner or a customer, Culmer says even accessing cash should be done carefully.

Inspector Jerard Culmer, Communications Unit, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“If you have to go to the ATM, please go in the day, and also if you have to go, please go at a gas station or a well-lit spot.”

Police say business security should be treated as part of holiday operations, and simple adjustments can go a long way in preventing crime.