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A security expert has warned that the widespread disruption caused by the passage of Hurricane Melissa has created new opportunities for criminals to target vulnerable communities and workplaces.

Hopeton Thomas, security manager at JN Bank, said the storm-related instability, combined with the fast-approaching yuletide season, traditionally a period of heightened criminal activity, poses significant risks island-wide. Thomas said the disaster’s aftermath has strained security systems, displaced residents and increased the flow of unfamiliar individuals into new territories. These conditions, he said, are ripe for impersonators, scammers and organised criminal groups seeking to exploit confusion and weakened oversight.

“Both the hurricane and the upcoming yuletide celebrations have the capacity to adversely impact our security in multiple ways,” he said.

He is, therefore, urging people to safeguard their homes, workplaces and be cautious as they travel, noting that collective awareness will be essential in preventing criminals from exploiting the ongoing recovery process and Christmas period.

Heightened Workplace Vulnerabilities

With cleanup and repair operations ongoing in multiple facilities, especially in the hardest-hit areas of the country, the JN Bank security manager said vigilance when dealing with contractors or individuals claiming to represent utility companies or government agencies is critical.

He urges verifying all contractor credentials, including insisting on proof of authorisation, valid identification and purpose of visit and double-checking with supervisors or contracting companies when in doubt.

“Be wary of individuals claiming to be security officers. At your workplaces, be cautious of ‘new’ officers. Remember, no new officer is to turn up at the location by himself. All new officers are to be introduced to the team only by a supervisor that you are familiar with from the security company,” he emphasised.

Mr Thomas added that security systems, such as panic alarms, burglary sensors and surveillance cameras, should also be tested to ensure they remain fully operational following the storm.

He also stressed that cash-handling procedures, including ATM loading for financial institutions, should be carefully managed with all funds secured in vaults until properly transferred.

Communities Urged to Work Together

At the household level, he encouraged residents to take a proactive role in restoring community vigilance. Mr Thomas recommended forming or reactivating neighbourhood watch groups, verifying strangers and ensuring all service providers are properly identified.

As storm-displaced debris and damaged property may also signal vulnerability, the security manager said homeowners must also move swiftly to clean their surroundings, repair gates and fences and maintain an appearance of occupancy, even if portions of their homes remain in disrepair.

“Where possible, keep gates, grills and doors closed,” he said.

He said that with reports already emerging of impersonators, including individuals posing as utility staff, turning up at residences even in the corporate area, families should brief all household members, including children and domestic workers, on how to handle unexpected visitors.

“Know who lives in your community and verify all strangers,” he said, while urging persons to “look out for individuals who may be impersonating workers from the Jamaica Public Service, National Water Commission, Digicel, Flow, Jamaica Fire Brigade, Jamaica Constabulary Force or Jamaica Defence Force. Always verify identity, establish purpose of visit and double-check the authorising personnel. Be prepared to call utility companies to verify that their representatives are working in your area,” he reiterated.

Travel Risks and Criminal Migration

The security manager also warned of possible criminal migration, as offenders may move from storm-affected zones into more stable areas, or the reverse, to prey on the more vulnerable. Residents are advised to maintain heightened vigilance, especially when approached by people soliciting donations for hurricane victims or offering post-disaster services.

“Be alert and aware of persons that may also pretend to be garbage collectors or construction workers. Try to know the neighbours who are rebuilding,” he stressed.

He’s also urging the public to use authorised transportation, avoid nighttime meetings and remain alert to rapidly changing conditions within their communities.

“Use familiar taxis, avoid hustlers whenever possible and travel in groups,” he advised. “Stay aware of developments in your area and share only verified information in your social media groups to keep everyone properly informed.”

He also warned people to be alert to social engineering schemes and fraudulent attempts to update online identity information.

“Be alert and verify everything before you act. Your vigilance can significantly reduce the risks during this vulnerable period,” he noted.“Report suspicious activity and always rely only on verified, official channels for assistance, repairs or information,” he stressed.