In this article, Jim Curran, IPU Director of Public Affairs & Communications, outlines the key findings from the IPU’s Annual Pharmacy Crime Survey 2024. The survey sheds light on the alarming levels of crime faced by pharmacies, highlighting the experiences of pharmacy owners and staff, and explores potential solutions to tackle these ongoing challenges.
The IPU’s 2024 survey reveals that nearly nine out of ten pharmacies (88 per cent) have been victims of crime in the past year, including incidents of shoplifting, break-ins, and raids. Alarmingly, 85 per cent of those affected reported experiencing multiple incidents, showing that crime against pharmacies is not a rare occurrence.
Of even greater concern, 15 per cent of respondents described the criminal incidents as violent, and in 23 per cent of cases, weapons were used during raids or robberies. As a result of these crimes, 23 per cent of pharmacies had to close temporarily, disrupting their services.
Shoplifting is the most common crime, with 89 per cent of pharmacies reporting incidents. Other crimes include fraud (21 per cent) and cybercrime (2 per cent), reflecting an increase in tech-based offenses. Additionally, 8 per cent of pharmacies dealt with staff pilferage.
About 13 per cent of pharmacies reported a raid in the past 12 months, and 2 per cent experienced break-ins. Disturbingly, in 23 per cent of the robbery or raid cases, a weapon was involved. Of these, 69 per cent involved a knife, 31 per cent a syringe, and 6 per cent a gun.
The survey found that cosmetics were the most frequently stolen items (85 per cent), followed by fake tan (44 per cent) and supplements (34 per cent). Additionally, one in five pharmacies (20 per cent) reported cash being stolen, while 9 per cent had prescribed drugs taken. Controlled drugs were stolen in 5 per cent of cases, and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in 7 per cent.
Pharmacies have invested heavily in security measures, with 95 per cent installing CCTV and 91 per cent adding alarm systems. Other precautions include firewalls (55 per cent), spam filters (48 per cent), tagging security devices (17 per cent), and the use of static guards (9 per cent).
Unfortunately, 61 per cent of pharmacies reported an increase in security costs over the past 12 months, with 25 per cent seeing a rise of over 10 per cent, mainly driven by CCTV and monitored alarms. Insurance costs have also surged, with 30 per cent of pharmacies reporting an increase due to criminal activity, and 27 per cent experiencing insurance hikes of over 10 per cent.
Although 71 per cent of pharmacies reported crimes to the Gardaí, only 59 per cent felt their cases were handled effectively. A significant 41 per cent expressed dissatisfaction, finding the Gardaí’s response inadequate.
Among those who chose not to report crimes, 56 per cent believed the incidents were too trivial, and an equal number cited a lack of time as the reason. Over half (52 per cent) doubted the criminal would face charges, and 26 per cent had no confidence in the Garda response. Additionally, 7 per cent of respondents were deterred from reporting crimes due to fear of reprisal.
Pharmacists strongly believe more needs to be done to tackle these crimes. Nearly all respondents (91 per cent) called for faster Garda response times, and 79 per cent wanted more visible policing. Many felt that the lack of Garda visibility is a resource issue rather than one of lacking interest in addressing the crime.
Three-quarters (76 per cent) supported increased CCTV surveillance, particularly in town centres, as a deterrent. Additionally, 89 per cent favoured tougher sentencing to discourage repeat offenses.
The findings of the 2024 survey are deeply concerning. The rise in crime against pharmacies is at an all-time high, with violent incidents particularly troubling. Nearly a quarter of pharmacy raids (23 per cent) involved violence or the use of weapons, putting staff at significant risk.
While shoplifting is the most common offense, the theft of medicine remains a serious issue, with 9 per cent of pharmacies reporting stolen prescription drugs and 5 per cent experiencing thefts of controlled substances.
The cost of securing pharmacies has increased dramatically, with notable rises in CCTV and alarm system expenses. Insurance costs have also surged, adding further financial pressure to pharmacy owners.
Although many respondents believe Gardaí are doing their best under challenging circumstances, frustrations remain about Garda response times and the overall lack of visibility. There is also widespread criticism of the judicial system, with many pharmacists referring to it as a “revolving door,” where repeat offenders are not sufficiently punished. This perceived leniency fuels concerns that criminals are not deterred from reoffending.
The impact of these crimes extends beyond financial losses. They have a profound effect on pharmacy staff, who are often seen as easy targets. One respondent noted; “Petty crime has been on the rise, and although individual cases seem insignificant, the cumulative effect is costly. The lack of punishment for perpetrators is demoralising and encourages others to follow suit.”
A zero-tolerance approach is urgently needed. Pharmacists are calling for tougher sentencing and a more visible Garda presence to combat this growing problem. Crimes against pharmacies are not just financial burdens but attacks on front-line healthcare providers. Immediate action is needed to protect pharmacy staff and ensure the safety of healthcare services.
“The cost of securing pharmacies has increased dramatically, with notable rises in CCTV and alarm system expenses. Insurance costs have also surged, adding further financial pressure to pharmacy owners.”
If you are seeking advice on pharmacy security, the IPU Contract Unit offers a comprehensive Security Pack with tips on keeping your pharmacy safe and handling suspected thieves. To request a pack, please contact Linda at linda.ahern@ipu.ie or 01 493 6401.
Jim Curran
Director of Public Affairs and Communications, IPU
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