Hundreds arrested for shoplifting offences this year as officers continue to back shops and workers
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) reports nearly 900 arrests and over 700 charges for shoplifting offences in the first quarter of 2025, continuing a trend of increased enforcement. Efforts include operations like Stockport’s Operation Rimini and Bolton’s dedicated shoplifting team, alongside partnerships with local stores. GMP emphasizes its commitment to tackling retail crime and violence against workers, with leadership involvement and national collaboration.
Nearly 900 shoplifters were arrested across Greater Manchester during the first three months of 2025, with 707 people charged for retail crimes between January and April 3.
The surge in arrests marks the latest phase of an intensified crackdown that saw police solve more than 5,000 shoplifting cases in the year leading to November 2024—equivalent to locking up 100 offenders every week.
District commanders are deploying dedicated squads such as Bolton’s specialist shoplifting team and staging targeted operations like Stockport’s Operation Rimini to catch thieves before they strike. Monthly strategy sessions led by force retail-crime lead Supt Cara Charlesworth bring together single points of contact from every district, while crime-prevention officers hand out security advice and equipment to store managers and security staff.
“Every year we strive to improve our service to our business community across Greater Manchester,” Charlesworth said. “This year alone, we have secured hundreds of arrests and charges, and at times last year, we were locking up 100 suspects every single week.”
Police chiefs vow the pressure will continue, urging any retailer experiencing repeated thefts to contact their neighbourhood team.
Source: Read original article