The recent pronouncement by head of the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit (CJRPU), that on current trajectory, Barbados could record some 60 homicides by year-end, should give every citizen pause.
Beyond the unenviable record position this would place the country in relation to crime, this news is a startling reality that existing efforts to curb the rise in gun crime and violence have not been working.
It would appear the country is reaping seeds sowed at some earlier time. The notion of an all-of-country approach may be seen as just platitudes if those proverbial seeds are not uprooted. Some policies and legislation earlier passed may need to be repealed, and some actions reversed, changed or cancelled, to set in order the course for positive and sustainable change. Let those who have ears to hear be so warned.
Of particular concern in this week’s article is the implication for legitimate economic actors who have taken the risk associated with starting a business and have a reasonable expectation to reap a profitable reward from their investment. The crime situation in the country threatens to erode the positive performance indicators realised by many small business owners, as these firms appear to be the targets of criminal activity.
The data compiled by the CJRPU for January-May 2025 showed that commercial entities are increasingly targeted, particularly by property and theft-related crimes. During the period commercial burglaries rose sharply by 45 per cent, reaching 97 reported cases, even as residential burglaries declined by 4 per cent. This rise in business break-ins suggests that commercial properties are becoming more vulnerable, potentially due to perceptions of weak security or financial gain. Criminal damage, which often affects business infrastructure, accounted for 40 per cent of all major property crime incidents during the period.
Theft-related crimes also had a significant impact on the business community. Overall theft increased by 7 per cent, with shoplifting rising by 52 per cent. Vehicle theft rose by 67 per cent, potentially affecting both commercial fleets and customer confidence. Agricultural businesses were not spared either, as theft of crops and livestock surged by 150 per cent, threatening food production and the viability of small-scale farming operations.
Firearm-enabled crimes, especially armed robberies, have become an increasing threat to business safety. Robberies rose by 95 per cent overall, with firearm-enabled robberies more than doubling compared to the same period in 2024. These crimes put employees, customers, and owners at serious personal risk and increase the need for costly security investments.
According to a recent national survey conducted in May and June 2025 by Professor Dwayne Devonish of the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, small businesses in Barbados are bearing substantial financial burdens due to rising violent crime. The findings highlight a significant disparity in the ability of citizens to afford security, with many unable to meet the high costs associated with personal and property protection.
The study revealed that Barbadians are spending nearly $1 million annually on crime prevention measures. However, this cost is not evenly distributed. While a small proportion of individuals invest heavily in advanced security systems, the majority rely on basic, low-cost measures due to financial constraints.
Among the respondents were 100 business owners, 15 per cent of which reported being victims of crime within the past 12 to 18 months. This marks an increase from 10 per cent in 2022. Commonly reported crimes included burglary, assault, theft, vandalism, and fraud.
A similar study done in the United Kingdom by Abby Security showed that exposure to crime was a key operational challenge faced by small firms. These businesses are often vulnerable to various forms of criminal activity, including theft, burglary, vandalism, fraud, and cybercrime. Such incidents can lead to considerable financial strain through the loss of goods, physical damage, disruption of services, and the cost of implementing additional security measures or addressing legal consequences.
Data from the Federation of Small Businesses (2019) highlights the prevalence and cost of traditional crime in England and Wales. Approximately 34 per cent of small businesses reported experiencing at least one traditional crime in that timeframe, with robbery and burglary (42 per cent), theft (38 per cent), and criminal damage (36 per cent) being the most common.
Criminals frequently target small businesses due to their often limited security infrastructure and financial resources. The direct financial impacts of stolen or damaged inventory are compounded by lost revenue, repair expenses, and increased insurance premiums. Vandalism, including broken windows and graffiti, can also interrupt daily operations and require costly maintenance.
In addition to financial harm, crime can produce significant psychological and emotional effects. For many owners, their business represents years of personal investment. Experiencing criminal activity may lead to stress, anxiety, and a diminished sense of personal and professional security.
Mitigating the risk of crime requires a combination of physical security upgrades and organisational procedures. Security measures such as CCTV systems, alarms, outdoor lighting, and controlled access points (e.g. electronic locks or ID systems) are effective deterrents. Regular site assessments can help identify weak points and guide the implementation of appropriate safeguards.
Employee awareness also plays a critical role. Staff should be trained to recognise suspicious behaviour, adhere to established security protocols, and respond appropriately during incidents. Routine practices—such as securing entry points, monitoring cash handling, and logging unusual activity—can help prevent criminal acts.
When crimes occur, timely reporting to law enforcement is essential for investigation and recovery. Accurate records, including descriptions, timestamps, and witness accounts, support both criminal proceedings and insurance claims.
While it may not be possible to eliminate crime entirely, especially in high-risk regions, businesses can take proactive steps to reduce its impact. Investing in effective security, maintaining awareness of current threats, and developing contingency plans are essential for long-term business resilience and sustainability.
Even minor incidents, when repeated over time, can lead to significant financial strain. Ongoing attention to crime prevention is therefore critical for supporting business growth and protecting economic activity in vulnerable communities.
The Small Business Association of Barbados (www.sba.bb) is the non-profit representative body for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
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