Barbados gas station operators are considering adjusting their operating hours due to growing concerns about gun crime, including a recent fatal shooting and armed robbery at a St. Philip petrol station. This incident follows a series of robberies and attempted robberies targeting gas stations over the past year.
Aldo Ho-Kong-King, President of the Petrol Dealers Association, expressed serious concern about these developments. He noted that many gas stations operate 24 hours a day, serving customers when other businesses are closed, making security during these late hours a significant issue. King emphasized that the association is closely monitoring the rising gun crime across the island, particularly incidents occurring at or near gas stations.
King acknowledged the limitations of gas station security measures in deterring armed threats. He stated that a different approach may be necessary and expressed hope that the police are prioritizing these incidents, as they have indicated. He added that the association, like the rest of the country, is watching the situation closely to determine what actions are needed.
King explained that the specific types of gun crimes occurring are difficult for gas stations to secure against. However, he warned that if these incidents continue, the association will be forced to consider adjusting operating hours at its member stations.