Penarth police inspector on Christmas shoplifting concerns

A number of businesses in Penarth in recent weeks have told the Penarth Times about ‘brazen’ incidents of shoplifting.  

In a Penarth Town Council meeting, on September 12, Inspector Chile Gareth said: “I am aware commercial burglaries can be a problem for this area.” 

The inspector attended the meeting, at West House on Stanwell Road, to update the town council.  

It was a chance for councillors to ask important questions to the inspector on crime impacting local residents and businesses. 

In a question to the inspector, Cllr Rhiannon Birch said: “Shops will be starting to put Christmas stock out. 

“Last year there were several incidents of people going into places with huge Ikea bags and swiping the shelves. 

“What advice do you give to staff who are told not to challenge these people? How are you going to protect staff and stock?” 

The inspector replied: “If you have valuable items at the front of the store, put them at the back of the store, so they may lose their confidence. 

“Having security there too - with some of the premises this might not always the case, but boots and other major retails could look at security this festive season.” 

“It is a deterrent when they see a security guard – and display notices that shoplifting will be prosecuted.” 

The inspector also advised local businesses to install CCTV cameras as it helps officers identify suspects.

Cllr Mike Cuddy asked: “Have you noticed any incidents of organized theft?” 

The inspector replied: “I have not picked up anything to suggest organized crime. This is just day to day shop lifting.” 

In the same meeting, the inspector told councilors about a new initiative across the Vale and Cardiff about vehicle theft.  

“An increase of incidents has taken place, so we are warning the public about keeping vehicles safe.  

“We tend to find vehicles are stolen when delivery drivers leave their keys in the van and some opportunist thefts have been taking place.”