Shoplifting

Over the past month, we’ve seen an increase in reports of shoplifting incidents across several retail locations in town. These incidents range from small-value thefts to more organized attempts targeting high-value items.

Local businesses have expressed concern about the impact on their businesses and the safety of staff and customers. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Actions

• 30 June 2026
  

  We have been actively tackling shoplifting through a combination of prevention, engagement, and intelligence-led policing. High-visibility patrols are being conducted in key retail areas to deter offending and provide reassurance to businesses and members of the public. We have encouraged all retailers to report every incident of shoplifting, regardless of the value involved, as this enables us to build a more accurate picture of offending patterns, identify repeat offenders, and highlight the stores most frequently targeted. By working together, we can respond more efficiently to incidents, support retailers, and develop targeted strategies to reduce shoplifting and improve safety within the local business community.

  If you are experiencing issues with shoplifting, remember to report these issues to us through the correct channels. You can report:

  • Online via Report shoplifting
  • By phone
    • Call 999 – for emergencies or if a crime is in progress.
    • Call 101 – for non-emergency situations or to provide information about a crime
  • In-person – visit your local Police Stations during their operational hours
• 3 January 2026
  

  To address this issue, we are taking proactive steps:

  • Increased Patrols: Officers will be conducting more frequent visits to retail areas.
  • Business Engagement: We are working closely with shop owners and staff to provide guidance on prevention strategies and reporting procedures.

  If you are experiencing issues with shoplifting, remember to report these issues to us through the correct channels. You can report:

  • Online via Report shoplifting
  • By phone
    • Call 999 – for emergencies or if a crime is in progress.
    • Call 101 – for non-emergency situations or to provide information about a crime
  • In-person – visit your local Police Stations during their operational hours