Police officials interact with jewellery and electronic store traders

In a bid to tighten security and prevent criminal activity at high-value commercial establishments, the Hyderabad police convened a coordination meeting with owners of jewellery shops and store owners of electronic goods operating under the north zone on Wednesday.

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner of Police S. Rashmi Perumal, saw participation of more than 50 representatives, along with ACPs and SHOs of the north zone.

The objective was to ensure strict adherence to statutory regulations, security norms and provisions under the Telangana State Public Safety Act and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Shop owners and managers were sensitised on the need for strong preventive mechanisms to ensure that their establishments do not become targets for theft, burglary or fraud.

Jewellery shop owners were specifically warned against purchasing ornaments from unknown or unverified sources. The police cautioned that offenders involved in chain-snatching and thefts often attempt to dispose of stolen jewellery through shops, and establishments found dealing in such items, knowingly or unknowingly, would face strict legal action.

Shop representatives were advised to install CCTV cameras with adequate backup at all vulnerable points – including entrances, counters, safes, trial rooms and storage sections. They were also asked to ensure the presence of panic buttons and emergency alert systems for quick communication with local police during emergencies. Proper customer verification records were mandated for high-value and/or bulk purchases buy-back transactions and gold exchange activities, while employee background verification was made compulsory for sales staff, delivery agents, security guards and technicians.

The police further emphasised the need for secure cash-handling protocols, periodic verification of accounts, and increased awareness among staff regarding cyber-fraud risks such as QR code scams, fake payment screenshots and UPI-based fraud. Strong supervision of night-duty security personnel was also stressed, with the police noting that lapses such as guards falling asleep during late hours could pose serious risks.

Shops were asked to conduct a thorough audit of structural and security vulnerabilities, including shared walls, AC openings, ventilation gaps and other access points that could be exploited by offenders. Reinforced locking mechanisms, burglar alarms, double-locking systems and periodic inspections of security equipment were also advised.