Thieves targeting Andover shops over the Christmas and New Year period are being warned that they will be stopped and caught as part of Operation Scrooge.
Police are working with local retailers in Andover Town to arrest known offenders and respond swiftly to reports of suspicious behaviour in stores.
Officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and special constables will be working alongside shop security guards and CCTV operators. A team of undercover officers will be working to target thieves and those travelling to the area for the purpose of theft.
Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant, Glenn Curtis; “We’ve a zero-tolerance on shoplifting and are will be continuing to use tactics that have proved successful in previous years on reducing thefts.”
“Thieves caught stealing goods from law-abiding shops and their customers will be arrested. Suspects also face having their homes searched because we know some shoplifters can be prolific in storing goods to sell second-hand.”
Operation Scrooge is a campaign being run in the Test Valley district.
