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Security during the transition of forces: How to protect yourself and your belongings

ARCENT News

Mar 12, 2004

By: Sgt. 1st Class Deborah Robichaux CFLCC - PAO

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait (March 12, 2004) - As the number of troops on post increases, the statistical probability of crime also increases. Practicing simple safety measures will help you avoid becoming a statistic.

Detachment four of the 535th Military Police Battalion from Raleigh, N.C., has been responsible for the theater confinement facility for most of the past year, and recently has been responsible for law enforcement on Camp Arifjan too. Capt. Jeffrey B. Hill from Salisbury, N.C., executive officer of Detachment Four, said shoplifting is the most frequently reported crime on post.

"We don't have a great deal of reported barracks theft," Hill said. "But some Soldiers are stealing from the PX and the bazaar vendors."

Hill said after the loss-prevention specialists catch shoplifters, the military police are called, and the accused is brought to the Provost Marshal's office for processing. After processing, the chain of command of the accused is notified.

According to Hill, although the punishment is left up to the chain of command, the standard for shoplifting is usually an Article 15 under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Even though barracks theft is not a highly reported crime on Camp Arifjan, Hill suggests a few things individuals can do to protect themselves and their belongings.

"Personal safety should always be on Soldier's minds," Hill said. "Don't go out alone after dark, be aware of your surroundings, know where the MP stations are, and adhere to force protection guidance."

Some additional suggestions are:

DO

" Lock up personal belongings, especially electronics and items that are portable.

" Engrave your name on everything you can.

" Keep an eye on sensitive items such as protective masks, weapons, and TA-50.

DON'T

" Flash a lot of cash.

" Leave personal belongings unsecured.

" Put yourself in dangerous situations.

Though increasing the visibility of military police may help deter crime on Camp Arifjan, they can't be everywhere. Hill said using common sense, maintaining situational awareness and adhering to force protection guidance is the key to not becoming a crime statistic.