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Shoplifting in England and Wales Surges to 20-Year High

New figures show a 30% increase in shoplifting offences, prompting government action and retailer concerns.

  • Police recorded 443,995 shoplifting offences in the year to March 2024, the highest since records began in 2003.
  • Theft from the person and robbery also saw significant increases, with knife-related robberies up 13%.
  • Labour Government plans new laws to tackle shoplifting and assaults on retail workers.
  • Retailers report rising costs due to theft, adding 6p to every transaction.
  • Knife crime rose by 4%, with notable increases in certain regions and specific crimes.
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