The recent spate of pharmacy robberies seems unlikely to end unless the incentive for addicts is eliminated.

A simple change behind the counter might go a long way to reduce or even end this continuing issue before someone is hurt.

Pharmacists could set up a parallel system for the most popular drugs stolen. Then, when confronted with the potential robber, they could give them the similarly packaged, but fake, drugs.

It’s unlikely the robbers will have the means or the time to test their ill-gotten gains on the spot. I’d suggest a strong laxative substance as a replacement.

The result of distributing the stolen items would quickly dampen the enthusiasm (and keep them closer to the toilet) of these desperate characters. If this system was uniformly deployed, pharmacy robberies would quickly become a thing of the past.

Simple, safe, effective, sustainable.

Scott Phair, Manchester


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.