Shoplifting action taken by SOUTHFIELDS SAFERNEIGHBOURHOODS TEAM

I wanted to provide you an update regarding Shoplifting, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Shoplifting was raised as a concern by local residents and Southfields Police have taken action. A regular shoplifter who travels on a bicycle was identified by local residents as causing concerns and crime and disorder in the local area. Southfields Safer neighbourhoods team have tracked them down and arrested them for shoplifting. They are currently in police custody awaiting charging decision.
Police often struggle with targeting shoplifters due to a lack of reporting and cooperation from larger businesses. However It only takes one employee to cooperate with police investigations. Thanks to an employee at a larger store in SOUTHFIELDS who have given police a statement and assisting in CCTV the local police have been able to target an offender and bring them to the into the justice system for their actions. Several stolen items have been recovered.

Shoplifting is a crime that can have a substantial negative impact on local businesses across London. If you notice anything suspicious or witness anyone shoplifting, please report it as soon as possible. These reports are invaluable in letting us build a picture of when and where shop lifters operate, meaning we can be in the right place at the right time to arrest those responsible. 

For more guidance, see our page on how to spot a shoplifter.

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years, and we want to make sure you have had the chance to have your say. The consultation paper is available online, as well as a survey to let us know what you think. This closes on the 15 September.