Half of banks in western Ukraine lack basic security

A police investigation on bank security in western Ukraine has found that half of 500 banks were not enforcing even basic security measures, RFE/RL reported.

Police chief Olexander Koniushok told RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service that criminals view banks without alarms or reinforced windows like bonbons without the wrapping, up for the taking.

Police reported some 100 robbery attempts on banks in one region alone last year.

A bank representative told RFE/RL that robberies are getting more sophisticated and local police do not always provide adequate protection.

Police representatives say banks are often unwilling to invest in proper security measures.

RFE/RL