USPS to increase security measures after rise in robberies across nation

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The United States Postal Service is increasing its security measures to protect mail carriers and prevent theft after a rise in robberies across the nation, including here in Milwaukee.

The postal service says it is installing 12,000 new blue collection boxes that are harder to break into. 

They're also replacing nearly 50,000 arrow keys with electronic locks. 

Milwaukee police recently busted a crime ring where Milwaukee men were allegedly robbing mail carriers at gunpoint for their arrow keys. These keys provide access to collection boxes and mailboxes. 

These changes are happening in high security risk areas throughout the country.

USPS says they cannot confirm if Milwaukee is included for safety reasons.