Police arrest man suspected of shoplifting and flouting store ban

A man was arrested in Audenshaw on suspicion of nine shoplifting offences during a police crackdown on retail crime.

The 32-year-old is also believed to have breached a Criminal Behaviour Order which banned him from entering a shop on Stamford Road.

He was arrested as part of the force’s Safer Business Action Week.

A police spokesman said: "Thanks to robust multi-agency work with local partners, private security, store management, and specialist teams within the force, we’ve been able to arrest a suspected prolific shoplifter, who was specifically targeting a shop in Audenshaw."

The district is taking part in the National Business Crime Centre's (NBCC) Safer Business Action Week (SaBA Week). This includes patrols, locating offenders, and visiting premises – both to provide advice and to crack down on business offences.

Sergeant Stu Charlesworth from the Tameside Neighbourhood Team said: “The safety of shop workers is paramount, and this week, we aim to strengthen our engagement with businesses and the public so we can identify and catch more offenders.

"We’ve been working closely with shops to increase security measures, and by arresting this man, we hope to make a big difference for store employees and shoppers.

“The more information we get, the more we can target our operations in the right places and against the right people. I would urge any retailers who experience similar issues to get in touch with us and report any crimes that occur. We understand the issues and pressures that shoplifting and anti-social behaviour can bring to businesses, so let’s work together to solve these issues.

“Throughout Safer Business Action Week, you can expect to see plenty of officers about in Tameside – do feel free to talk to them about what they do and the issues you have been encountering.”

To report a crime to GMP, call 101 or use the 24/7 LiveChat function online at www.gmp.police.uk. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

If you would prefer to remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.