Proactive police operation targets shoplifting

ACT Policing and Canberra retailers have conducted proactive operations this month to target shoplifting.    

Working with Loss Prevention Officers (LPOs) from Woolworths, Big W, Dan Murphy’s and Coles, members from the Territory Targeting Team (TTT) have conducted plain clothes operations at a number of shopping precincts.   

On 7 June, 2023, TTT members targeted shopping centres at Majura and Dickson. During this operation three people were arrested for theft, with one of these offenders also charged for possessing a knife, and another for breaching a good behaviour order. Police also issued 12 cautions for theft offences.    

On 14 June, the operation shifted to the Canberra Centre, which saw two people arrested – one for theft, the other for breach of bail - while a further six people were issued cautions for theft.    

Officer in Charge of City Police Station, Detective Inspector Stephen Ladd praised the collaboration of police and retailers.    

“The Territory Targeting Team has developed strong working relationships with local retailers, which has led to the success of this operation,” Detective Inspector Ladd said.    

“Shoplifting is largely a crime of opportunity, and large retailers such as supermarkets often cannot keep an eye on all of their goods all of the time.    

“This operation is a timely reminder to thieves that police can be anywhere, anytime. Shoplifting may seem like a harmless offence, but it is still a crime and police will continue to target this type of offending.”    

The cost of shoplifting adds to the cost of all retail goods. Police and retailers will continue to work together to address this crime type with further operations expected.  

For journalists: Broadcast quality video of this incident can be downloaded from Hightail (this link will expire in seven days). 

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