Huge drop in shoplifting in Wakefield city centre reported

Traders in Wakefield city centre have seen a 75 per cent reduction in shoplifting a single month.
Trinity WalkTrinity Walk
Trinity Walk

Police reported this week that statistics are showing a huge drop-off of retail crime throughout August.

A police spokesman said: “Some of the reasons for this are down to the Smart Water campaign, high-visibility patrols by the city centre neighbourhood police team who are engaging with businesses and security staff on a regular basis and the effective use of the retail radios.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The radios have allowed shops to tip each other off if a suspect is in the city.

The Smart Water campaign saw businesses sign up to have their items coated in special liquid than can not be rubbed off and can only be seen under UV light.

It allowed any stolen items to be returned to the right shop and help catch those responsible. Between September last year and August this year, one store within the centre recovered from shoplifters a total of £20,000 worth of stock, £18,000 of which was fragrance.

Related topics: