Wilmslow Police are currently carrying out an operation to target shoplifters at Handforth Dean, which is a regular issue and accounts for a significant proportion of the crimes committed in the area.
Increased patrols are operating in the area and officers are attending each store looking for any potential suspects. They have also recently conducted an ANPR operation in the area targeting suspects of fuel theft and shoplifting.
Sgt Andy Miller said "Sadly we are still experiencing a considerable number of shoplifting offences in the Handforth Dean area. Because of this Wilmslow NPU will be running an operation in aim to tackle this issue. We have specified officers patrolling the key areas where shoplifting takes place throughout the day. They will be working with specific shops in a bid to target those responsible, detect offences and reduce the levels of shoplifting."
Two females from the Greater Manchester area were arrested for stealing goods valued at over £600 from Marks and Spencers, Handforth Dean on Saturday 24th January.
Sgt Miller said "The management and security team had been aware of the female suspects due to a previous theft at the store and were pro-active when it came to them inevitably returning. The females were charged with theft and given conditional bail. Great success for M&S and Cheshire Police working together."
There have also been problems with shoplifters on Grove Street, Alderley Road and Chapel Lane.
Sgt Miller continued "We have been conducting a considerable amount of high visibility patrols in problematic areas and working with those stores that have been repeatedly targeted. This has resulted in a reduction in offences and an increase in our detection rate. It has also allowed us the opportunity to offer support and guide stores in how to reduce crime."
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