Local Priorities Shoplifting Update

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.

On Monday 1st June 2026 Mustapha ALI was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court to 2 years imprisonment for a total of 37 offences of shoplifting over a 5 month period across Camden and Islington boroughs.

This was a complex investigation conducted by our volume crime team. In support of the investigation officers from Camden Town, Holborn and Laycock Safer Neighbourhoods completed an application for a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). Following the conviction and as part of the sentence today Holborn Safer Neighbourhoods Team secured the CBO with the following conditions:

1. Not to enter any Tesco or Sainsbury's stores within the London Boroughs of Islington and Camden.
2. Not to enter any retail outlet in the London Borough of Islington that sells alcohol without a means of paying.
3. Not to associate with certain named individuals.

Mr ALI is one of the most prolific shoplifters in Islington & Camden and hopefully his imprisonment and the additional restrictions he will have upon release will go a long way to reducing future offending.

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.