Speaking on radio this morning, Police Commissioner Gary Burns noted that there had been 10 robberies of this type – typically service stations and small deli-style stores – recently.

“In relation to five of the robberies we’ve already arrested six people,” he said.

“We also believe one or two people have committed at least three of the recent robberies and we’ve got suspects that we’re looking into,” he said.

He said it is not unusual for spikes to occur in this type of offending – often because one offender may be involved in more than one robbery – but that analysis over the last five years shows a consistent decrease in the number of reported aggravated robberies in South Australia.

Total figures have decreased from 896 in 2010/11 to 790 in 2011/12, 727 in 2012/13 and 589 in 2013/14.

The year-to-date figures for 2014/15 suggest this downward trend is continuing with a total of 480 reports received to 10 June 2015.

In addition to investigating individual incidents, police work with the community on key crime prevention strategies to combat this type of offending.

Advice provided to businesses and business groups in order to prevent robberies includes:

*             Be alert to individuals who may be observing your business or who are asking questions about how your business runs.

*             Ensure all back and side doors and windows are kept secure.

*             Keep cash held at counters to a workable minimum.

*             Encourage electronic methods of payment rather than cash.

*             Ensure safes are securely fixed to a floor, wall or similar solid object.

*             Consider the installation of security devices, such as duress alarms, CCTV or perpetrator marking technology.

*             Make use of signage and stickers promoting security measures.

*             Do not discuss cash holdings or movements of cash with people who do not need to know.

*             Ensure staff are aware of security and armed robbery procedures.