A WALKIE-talkie system could help cut crime in Petts Wood shops, after five youths were scared off in trials.

Petts Wood Business Association (PWBA) has joined forces with Bromley Council and the Police to introduce the radios, which will enable shopkeepers to contact each other if they see anything suspicious.

Seven radios, paid for by Bromley Council, are in use. Six are with business and one with Petts Wood ward officer Police Constable Dave Cooper.

Two walkie-talkies were borrowed from Locksbottom traders for trials some months ago, and PC Cooper said they allowed shop staff to track five suspicious youths through the town.

He said: “Nobody wants to stereotype people, but these youths were clearly employing distraction techniques in shops.

“But because we knew where they were going, staff were expecting them and they couldn't steal anything. Eventually they fled town on a train. These radios are cheap, at £40 each, but hopefully they will really work.”

PWBA Chairman Paul Stevens said: “Hopefully the system will help prevent crime and we also want everyone in Petts Wood to make sure they report crimes that do happen.”

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