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.

Barking Town Centre today arrested an individual for retail theft (shoplifting) today, inquiries are ongoing. A further option for the team to consider community protection warning and or notice, to follow. If the individual concerned comes to notice thereafter the team will start to work with the Criminal Behaviour Order Panel, a multi-agency panel to make an application for a CBO Order. The team are also working on enhanced patrols as part of the Home Office funding linked to OP Martello, joint venture with University, MPS and Home Office. Reports by 3 retailers in the Town Centre have confirmed that since the instigation of OP Martello previously Op Nightingale, and the enhanced and increase in hexagons covering key hot spots they have started to see a reduction in victimisation linked to retail theft and or anti-social behaviour. The team led by myself, and PS Kent, with PCSO Stow are working with the Local Authority and Retail businesses in Barking, including the Business Improvement District lead to enhance networking, and engagement with retailers to problem solve, and work together on solving the key issues and priorities facing retail community in Barking Town Centre. A great deal of support and joint working with Vicarage Fields Regional Director, Centre Manager and Security has seen a high number of issues resolved and actioned, with number of positive outcomes over last year.

PCSO Stow, PCSO Seewoochurn and PCSO Pocknell will be conducting further patrols and engagements to increase our membership with Met Engage and also further events to engage our local community on crime prevention options, working with our dedicated OP Martello SPOC PC Jordan. More to follow in due course on this.

Inspector Carroll Weeden. Barking Town Centre Lead.

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.

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