Local policing officers in Derry / Londonderry arrested a shoplifter in the city yesterday afternoon, Wednesday 27th March, who was later found to have been wanted in relation to a number of similar incidents.

Inspector Craig said: “We understand that retailers are under ever-increasing financial pressure and want to assure them that we are here to support them.

“At 1.50pm, we were contacted by a store in a city centre shopping mall, who reported a man had taken a number of high value meat products without paying. A second store, in the same mall, made a similar report ten minutes later.

“Officers attended and a 47-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of two counts of theft shortly afterwards.

“Upon checking the police database, it was discovered that the man was wanted in relation to offences dating to 2023 and as such he was further arrested on suspicion of burglary, fraud by false representation and three further counts of theft.

“He was taken to custody where he remains at this time.”

Inspector Craig continued: “The Police Service of Northern Ireland are committed to working with retailers to reduce theft. Thanks to quick-thinking and observant store staff, who were able to provide a detailed description of the suspect, we were able to ensure that this individual was swiftly held to account.

“If you have any concerns around your security measures or require crime prevention advice or guidance, please contact police on 101. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”