BUSINESS owners have praised a new operation by Narre Warren police to target the escalating amount of commercial and industrial burglaries in Casey.

A confidential database will be created, listing local businesses and residential properties that have closed circuit television (CCTV) or surveillance cameras, reducing the time and assisting police with their investigation process.

Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Lewis said that any property with a camera installed could be included in the database.

“It will help solve the staggering amount of local burglaries and hopefully see the return of the stolen products,” he said.

The proposed Casey initiated program has proven to be a success among local business owners.

Cranbourne’s Sand, Soil and Garden Supplies manager Ross Sbisa said the database was a clever idea.

The High Street businessman was forced to install full scale flood lighting after numerous burglaries cost his business about $30,000 in damages.

“The $13,000 bright flood lights are very effective and are working well,” he said.

Mr Sbisa said the database would see businesses looking out for each other, like a neighbourhood watch scheme.

Ace Wire Works’ founder Albert Blashki, 89, said his Hallam business also had flood lighting and two security cameras installed in an effort to reduce the crime rate in the area.

Mr Blashki expressed his interest in the proposed database. “I would be willing to join the project. I’m all for the operation,” he said.

Mr Blashki said the Abbott Road property has only ever had two attempted break-ins.

“The cameras acted as scare tactics. The offenders saw the cameras and immediately ran off,” he said. Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Gaskin told the News that the database would be up and running within a month, depending on the community’s feedback.

For further information or to join the database contact Det Sen Sgt Gaskin or Det Sen Sg Lewis at Narre Warren police on 9705 3111.