Britain is experiencing a shoplifting explosion. The Association of Convenience Stores has found that its membership of small shopkeepers endured 5.6 million thefts in 2023, shooting up from 1.1 million in 2022.
I was involved in one of the many millions of incidents set to be recorded for 2024, intervening last night after I spotted a brazen theft when I popped to the shops to pick up some milk. The indicators and warnings were obvious: black cap, big parka, bulging backpack. But the real giveaway was the chap sneaking bottle after bottle of olive oil into his pockets. I filmed the theft in process and alerted the store manager and security, with whom I worked to stop the suspect sneaking out with his free-of-charge goods.
Food should not require security stickers. Guards should not stand by the entrances to supermarkets
A scuffle followed, which ended with him abandoning his coat and bag as he fled the store.
Get Britain's best politics newsletters
Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in