A violent disturbance, in which police had to be called out, has caused worries over the security of
bingo halls. A large number of bingo players were left scared and shocked after armed robbers burst into the hall where they were playing, in Lurgan, Northern Ireland. The three men, who were armed with knives and hammers, stole a large amount of money, as well as a number of handbags that belonged to the terrified players. They are then said to have escaped in a car, and police have so far been unable to track them down. The incident occurred on the fourteenth of May, in the late evening, as a game of bingo was in session.
Although bingo halls may appear to be safe places, when factors are considered they may not be as secure as they seem. One reason for this is the demographics of bingo players. The fact that the vast majority are women heightens their vulnerability, as does that most players are also middle aged. Although it may appear politically incorrect to say so, it is likely that women would be less likely to stand up to intruders than men would. The age of most bingo players also means that they are much more likely to hand over whatever is asked for, rather than standing up to intruders, in order to avoid further trouble or injury.
The fact that most bingo games are played in the evening also increases the players' vulnerability, as it is likely to be dark outside, and this danger is increased. In Northern Ireland, the bingo hall was robbed at half past eight in the evening. There is little that can be done about this as most people will work during the day. The evening is the only feasible time that bingo halls can be open.
Thankfully incidents like this one do not happen often, and bingo halls are not the most obvious targets for thieves. Incidents such as this can happen anywhere. However, taking the above points into consideration, it may be wise for bingo hall workers to be vigilant when games are in session.
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A violent disturbance, in which police had to be called out, has caused worries over the security of
bingo halls. A large number of bingo players were left scared and shocked after armed robbers burst into the hall where they were playing, in Lurgan, Northern Ireland. The three men, who were armed with knives and hammers, stole a large amount of money, as well as a number of handbags that belonged to the terrified players. They are then said to have escaped in a car, and police have so far been unable to track them down. The incident occurred on the fourteenth of May, in the late evening, as a game of bingo was in session.