Thefts from chemists

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 33959, 27 September 1975, Page 14

Thefts from chemists

The recent increase in the number and effrontery of ■ thefts from chemists' shops may be a measure of the success the police are having in curtailing the illmzal supply of drugs from other sources. That is little comfort for chemists who are caught in the cross-fire between the police and illegal users of drues. More secure safes and more effective alarm svstems can help to reduce the rewards of burglaries and chemists have an obligation to render their I premises secure. But such devices can do little to inhibit thieves who are prepared to threaten the chemist or a member of his staff. Before long, all chemist shops may have to be fitted with concealed alarms connected to police stations; or the drugs sought for illegal use may have to be kept in only i a few secure centres. The value of drugs stolen ' remains small; the risk of harm to chemists and their staff is increasing rapidly Stiffer penalties for those who steal drugs, especially those who use a weapon, might help, but penalties are not likely to deter drug abusers whose need is desperate. Better access to treatment, with I an assurance that those who are genuinely attempting to give up their addiction will not be prosecuted, might deflect some drug abusers from other criminal acts. Some sympathy must be felt for a desperate addict; none should be shown to those who steal drugs in order to supply other people. The number of drug offences in the community continues to increase rapidly: offences associated with the pursuit > of drugs are also increasing. The community cannot dismiss lightly the danger to chemists, especially to , those who remain open at night. The services they provide to law-abiding citizens are too important.