Nearly 300 shoplifters arrested across December as GMP continues to tackle retail crime
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) made 296 arrests for shoplifting and theft from businesses in December 2024, with 221 charged and 133 remanded. The force conducted targeted operations like Op Grinch in Manchester city centre, resulting in 28 arrests. GMP plans to continue its multi-agency approach in 2025, focusing on prolific offenders and enhancing retailer engagement.
Greater Manchester Police arrested 296 people for shoplifting and business theft during December 2024, with 221 suspects charged and 133 remanded in custody at the time of arrest.
The force-wide crackdown saw neighbourhood teams working throughout the festive period to protect retail staff and combat shoplifting across the region. Operation Grinch, which ran in Manchester city centre from December 6 to 24, resulted in 28 arrests, 11 stop-searches and 14 community resolutions.
Chief Inspector Cara Charlesworth, GMP’s force lead for retail crime, said the increased Christmas shopping footfall attracted thieves targeting stores and abusing workers. “Our work ensured we locked up dozens of people in relation to shoplifting, securing countless charges,” she confirmed.
GMP has pledged to continue its multi-agency approach throughout 2025, working with store security, charities and specialist teams to tackle prolific offenders causing significant harm to businesses. The force urged retailers experiencing crime to report offences so local officers can provide bespoke crime prevention advice and take positive action.
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