Arrests made in retail thefts crackdown

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This article was published 29/02/2024 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipeg police continued a crackdown on retail thefts Wednesday, arresting six adults for stealing merchandise at the Superstore on Sargent Avenue.

All of the stolen property was recovered, the Winnipeg Police Service said Thursday. Two of the six suspects were found to have outstanding warrants for arrest.

Police estimated the stolen goods were worth more than $23,000.

The WPS, prompted by a reported increase in thefts and violence against store workers and shoppers, announced an effort to target serial shoplifters in November.

“The success of a retail theft initiative is dependent on effective collaboration between various stakeholders and a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of theft. The aim is to raise awareness, deter potential offenders, and promote a safe and secure shopping environment,” a news release stated.

“We remain committed to working with our community partners and social service providers to ensure support is available to individuals facing various challenges such as food insecurity, poverty, or addiction.”

Police told reporters on Dec. 4 that property-crime investigators had made 151 arrests since Nov. 1. On Dec. 21, the WPS said 132 theft-related arrests had been made in December.

The WPS did not have updated arrest numbers Thursday.