Local Priorities Shoplifting Message

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 Saturday 18th July 2026 Police officers responded to SAINSBURY'S LOCAL, 437B UXBRIDGE ROAD, EALING COMMON to a report of a shoplifter on scene. The male suspect was still on scene and had been seen taking a can of alcohol from the cabinet and consume it in store. The male was also linked and admitted to being the suspect for another recent shoplifting offence at the store. Police officers dealt with the male by using an out of court disposal method, whereby they issued him with an on the spot £90 Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND) fine.

Ealing Common SNT have identified our hotspot shops and stores on our ward and reguarly patrol around these when available on duty to reduce crime, catch offenders and provide reassure to shop staff.

Our current police response to retail crime is to strengthen our partnership with shops and stores, improve reporting/sharing of digital evidence and target criminality intelligence sharing platforms like Auror and on the street operations like OP Zordian.

In Ealing Common, our shoplifting reported crime statistics since the beginning of 2026 can be seen in the graph below.

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.