A DEDICATED police squad will help to stamp out retail crime across South Yorkshire from next year.
The taskforce of special officers is to lead high-visibility patrols on high streets and in shopping centres.
They will also work with shops to curb offences.
A new partnership is to be signed to help cut shoplifting in one supermarket’s branches across South Yorkshire.
Chf Insp Gwyn Thomas, lead for retail crime, said: “Shoplifting and retail crime remains a priority.
“The festive period is a busy time of year for high streets and shopping centres and we are committed to working with retailers to protect them from opportunistic thieves.”
Officers have visited vulnerable stores to give crime prevention advice and tackle suspected shoplifters.
Five arrests were made on suspicion of theft in separate incidents during a Sheffield-wide operation.
And on Friday, January 11, a ‘memorandum of understanding’ outlining a commitment to work together and reduce crime will be signed by police and The Co- operative.
Asst Chf Con Andy Holt is to meet Andrew Pope, head of Group Risk Services National Operations for The Co-operative, at the Lifewise Centre.
South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Shaun Wright said: “I understand the trying economic times and impact this has on crime.
“I am keen to work with business owners to minimise the impact of crimes such as shoplifting, which make a significant impact on people’s livelihoods and the community.”
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