Tackling Retail Crime in Our Community

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.

Retail crime has a real impact on local shops, staff and customers and we know how disruptive and intimidating these incidents can be. Your local Safer Neighbourhood Teams, alongside colleagues across the Borough, are working closely with retailers to tackle offenders, increase visibility in key locations, and support staff who experience violence or abuse.

We are using targeted patrols, CCTV/Body Worn Video evidence, intelligence from partners and local businesses to conduct focussed operations against repeat offenders. We continue to work with retailers to improve reporting routes, share information quickly and take early enforcement action.

How you can help
1. Report incidents – whether you’re a shopworker or a member of the public, reporting gives us the evidence we need to identify hotspots and target offenders.
2. Share any footage – CCTV, mobile phone clips or vehicle details can significantly strengthen an investigation.
3. Look out for staff – if you witness abuse or threatening behaviour towards shopworkers, please call police immediately.
4. Support your local businesses by reporting suspicious behaviour and helping to create safe, welcoming high streets.

By working together, we can reduce retail crime and keep local shops safe for everyone. If you have concerns or want advice, please speak with your local Safer Neighbourhood Team or visit www.met.police.uk.

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.