New data shows steep increase in shoplifting across Wales
ONS: Shoplifting incidents in Wales saw a 33% rise in the year leading to June 2024
Last updated 28th Oct 2024
The latest crime statistics, released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), reveal a significant rise in shoplifting across Wales, with retail trade union Usdaw expressing deep concerns over the impact on retail workers.
According to the ONS report, shoplifting incidents in Wales saw a 33% rise in the year leading to June 2024, showing that shoplifting has reached its highest level in two decades.
Areas with the highest increase of shoplifting:
- Gwent: +43%
- South Wales: +42%
- Dyfed-Powys: +19%
- North Wales: +9%
According to the survey of over 5,500 retail workers, 60% of retail workers reported experiencing violence, threats, or abuse related to shoplifting and armed robbery.
Usdaw General Secretary Paddy Lillis said:
"It is increasingly common for retail stores to be targeted by organised crime gangs stealing to order."
"This is in no way a victimless crime, with weapons and violence used to ensure these criminals are not stopped."
"Having to deal with repeated and persistent offences can cause issues beyond the theft itself like anxiety, fear and physical harm to retail workers."
“We are delighted to now have a new Labour Government that has already included key measures in their legislative programme."
The union says it looks forward to:
- Ending the £200 threshold for prosecuting shoplifters
- Increased funding for more uniformed officer patrols in shopping areas, along with town centre banning orders for repeat offenders.