Convenience stores might as well have a huge target painted on them. Robbery is a common problem, especially if the shop happens to be open 24-hours. One city in Japan is betting that taxi drivers may be the solution to cutting down on this type of crime.
In 2011, Kyoto police started the "Midnight Defender Strategy". Convenience stores partner up with cab drives, allowing them to use their parking lot to take breaks during overnight hours. The goal was to add an extra set of eyes in hopes that it would deter potential thieves.
Police say the initiative has been a huge success. RocketNews24 reports that participating stores have seen robberies drop by 78%, while the total number of robberies across the city have been cut in half.
One store manager said that “having the drivers around for any amount of time leads to a sense of security. Our midnight staff especially thanks them.”
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