Police have new plan to curb rise in shoplifting

SURREY Police says it will crack down on shoplifting after admitting past efforts have not always been successful.

- By VICTORIA SHIPP

The force says officers are committed to investigating crime, which is leaving shop owners “terrified”.

As part of a refreshed plan, it has committed to ensuring all appropriate avenues will be pursued to identify offenders, collect evidence, recover stolen property, and ensure witnesses are located and interviewed.

Shoplifting is at record levels across the country. Statistics from the ONS show 6,815 offences reported in Surrey last year - up from 5,072 in 2023, an increase of more than 34 per cent.

Chief Superintendent Juliet Parker, force lead for retail crime, said: “Retail crime is simply not fair.

“It can be volatile and dangerous and fuels local illicit activities. Through clear cooperation and partnership working, the figures can be improved. We have made positive strides in this area, but there is more to do.

“Our strategy sets clear guidelines for our response to retail crime, and our local teams are embedding this in their operational work.”

There will also be a focus on prevention, with neighbourhood policing teams carrying out proactive patrols and working with businesses to review their security measures.