Shoplifting arrests double as retail crime rises

Arrests for shop thefts have more than doubled in Surrey over the past year, according to Surrey Police.

The force has been working with the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, Lisa Townsend, on ways to tackle offending.

It said reports of retail crime are increasing and has launched a consultation asking business owners and residents how authorities can better combat retail crime.

In the past year, almost 1,300 arrests for shop thefts have been made, up from 555, while retail crimes detected by Surrey Police have risen from 636 to 1,537.

"We know that retail crime has a significant impact on victims, witnesses and communities," a Surrey Police spokesperson said.

"We want to hear from local businesses and anyone who has been affected by this type of crime to truly understand the scale of offending in Surrey."

Surrey Police says it is refreshing its strategy on tackling retail crime, and added its Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been increased as they "recognise the need for timely, high-quality investigations".

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