Day of action in Bearwood brings success
Police officers have targeted their patrols and intensified activity around shoplifting in Bearwood as part of a planned operation.
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Operation Peppermint – Sandwell’s response to shoplifting, a day of action was held around Bearwood Road with extra patrols and an increased police presence.
Officers conducted high visibility patrols and engaged with shop workers around thefts and listened to their concerns.
Under the operation, police are identifying key hotspots such as Bearwood Road and tailoring patrols to be there when shoplifting is most common.
In partnership with Sandwell Council the police also have a retail radio scheme in place on the high street which allows staff to speak to police officers and other stores if they see any suspicious activity.
The radios have also enabled the sharing of intelligence and any theft trends between businesses and officers.
Along Bearwood Road, there are several CCTV cameras to improve safety for shoppers, businesses and residents.
The cameras are wirelessly linked to Sandwell Council’s CCTV control room, where they are monitored by licensed operatives.
The footage has been a vital tool to assist identifying suspects.
In the last few weeks a number of shoplifting arrests have been made across Sandwell andthose who persistently offend have been identified.
As the result of our partnership with businesses in Sandwell, two of the most prolific shoplifters have been jailed,
Sergeant Jason Walters from Smethwick Neighbourhood Team said: “Shoplifting remains a priority for us in Sandwell and we understand how frustrating it is for both shop workers and customers.
“The neighbourhood team have built a good relationship with businesses on Bearwood Road and know the names and faces of persistent offenders.
“It’s so important to talk to your officers when we are on the streets and let us know of any concerns and any shoplifting intelligence.
“We also strongly encourage stores to install good CCTV which will allow us to capture suspects and use facial recognition software to identify them. This then gives a stronger chance of the offenders being prosecuted.
“But ultimately, we need shop workers to report every shoplifting offence, no matter how big or small the financial value.
“If you don’t report it, we can’t take action”
You can do this by calling 101 or via Live Chat on our website. Always call 999 in an emergency.
