Shoplifting

Shoplifting

Barnehurst SNT Update

Barnehurst SNT are aware of reports of shoplifting at Sainsbury’s Local, Erith Road, Barnehurst, and are carrying out proactive patrols in the area to deter offences and identify those responsible.

Whilst on patrol, officers observed a male acting suspiciously outside the store and repeatedly looking inside. It was believed he may have been checking for the presence of security staff. Upon noticing police, the male attempted to leave the area and was subsequently detained by officers and subjected to a stop and search.

Officers are continuing enquiries into individuals known to be involved in shoplifting at this location and will maintain a visible presence in the area to address concerns and reduce offending.

The Met is cracking down on street crime, like shoplifting, people doing drugs and phone-snatching. 

We’ve put hundreds more officers on the frontlines of community crime-fighting teams, upping visible patrols in the right ‘hot spots’ so we can deter and catch criminals.

We’re now arresting more than 1,000 extra criminals every month and seeing ‘neighbourhood crime’ down 14%.

But we know there is more to do. That’s why we’re stepping up our use of technology, increasing our operations and working with retailers to make it less appealing for criminals to commit these crimes in the first place.

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 want your help to shape the future of policing across London. We are seeking your views on our new inclusion strategy to ensure that the Met is a police service that is trusted, representative and more effective at keeping London safe. You can have your say on our Inclusion Strategy consultation which runs until Thursday 26 November.