In the last few weeks, armed robbers have been reeking havoc in south Shreveport.  Since September 29th, nearly half a dozen businesses have been robbed in the city's Southern Hills area.

"We can't say for certain that they're all related right now, but there are several that are very similar," said Det. John Jackson.

Jackson says the gunmen have been striking late at night near closing time.  

Some of the businesses include the Pizza Hut on Southside Drive, the Breaktime Bar on W. Bert Kouns, Waffle House on Financial Plaza and the Appleby's on Mansfield Road.

"One robbery is too many," said Cpl. Marcus Hines.

Hines says so far this year, fifty-four businesses have been robbed at gunpoint.  He says there's no telling how many robberies have been prevented thanks to people being aware of their surroundings.

In the last few days, authorities say employees at Hanny's Sports Bar and Hiway Lounge were able to ward off would-be robbers by locking doors and reporting suspicious activity.

"There's never ever a better time to report activity than when you first see it," said Hines.

Investigators say reporting strange behavior is just one way to help keep your business from being targeted.  Another way is having a working surveillance system.

"Surveillance is the main thing we rely on so we can get it to the media outlets, they can get it to the community and we rely on those tips," said Jackson.

Jackson says the more tips they get, the better chance they have of stopping even more robberies.