Help Us Tackle Shoplifting and the Handling of Stolen Goods

Over the past year, shoplifting offences across the area have reduced by more than 200 offences, thanks to the ongoing efforts of local officers, retailers, businesses, and our communities.
 

While this is encouraging, theft continues to affect businesses and local people. Experience shows that shoplifting is often driven by the ability of offenders to quickly sell or dispose of stolen goods. To further reduce offending, we are seeking information that can help us identify locations, individuals, and businesses involved in the handling, storage, purchase, or resale of stolen property.
 

Recent policing activity has highlighted the importance of developing a stronger intelligence picture around venues suspected of handling stolen goods and the links between repeat offending and locations where stolen items can be sold. Community information plays a vital role in helping us identify these locations and take appropriate action.
 

We are particularly interested in information about:

• Shops, businesses, market stalls, or addresses suspected of buying stolen goods.
• Locations where stolen items are regularly sold or exchanged.
• Individuals involved in the resale of suspected stolen property.
• Online marketplaces or social media accounts advertising suspicious goods.
• Patterns of activity, including specific days, times, or locations where these exchanges take place.
 

How You Can Help

Please send any information directly to us through MetEngage.

When reporting, please include as much detail as possible, such as:

• Location or address.
• Date and time of the activity.
• Description of individuals involved.
• Vehicle details.
• The type of items being sold or handled.
• Why you believe the goods may be stolen.
 

Even information that may seem insignificant can help build a wider intelligence picture, identify trends, and support future police operations targeting those who profit from criminal activity.
 

Together, we can continue to reduce shoplifting, disrupt the handling of stolen goods, and help protect local businesses and our communities.