POLICE across Warrington and Cheshire have been out in force to support national Safer Business Week, targeting key retail sites, smaller businesses and industrial estates.
The nationwide week of action aimed to crack down on anti-social behaviour in shops as well as tackling some of the most prolific shoplifting offenders.
Oficers were involved in initiatives designed to protect property and businesses across the county – including the ShopKind campaign which aims to prevent and challenge violence and abuse against shop workers.
Engagement events were held across the force area with advice given to local businesses and customers.
Officers carried out plain clothed patrols in town centres and shopping centres and made 18 arrests for various offences including shoplifting, being wanted or breaching orders.
In Warrington officers responded to a report of a man stealing vouchers from ASDA in Birchwood. He made off from the scene but was found by officers a short time later and following a search was found in possession of the stolen items and was arrested. He was also found to be wanted on an outstanding Failure to Appear Warrant and was arrested and remanded.
Inspector Scott Fletcher said: “It was great to see Local Policing Units out in force making arrests, giving advice on crime prevention, and engaging with the public – all in the name of Safer Business Week.
“This week has also highlighted some great results that were a direct result of the hard work our officers put in when it comes to tackling shoplifting and bringing the most prolific offenders in the county to justice.
“By forming close links and working alongside the local businesses and retailers, and our own partner organisations, we can better protect commercial properties, safeguard their staff and customers and prevent any future offending.”
