South Yorkshire Police revealed Safer Business Action Week (SABA) secured 43 arrests and a further 88 charges, with one prolific shoplifter being jailed for a year on the first day of the initiative.

The dedicated week of action, that began on October 14, saw the force target shoplifters and offered vital crime prevention advice to retailers.

Inspector Kay Fitzgerald, Force Lead for Retail Crime, said: “To secure almost 90 theft charges against suspected shoplifters in South Yorkshire over the course of the week of action is a fantastic result.

“Retail crime remains a complex issue for forces nationwide, but in South Yorkshire we remain steadfast in our dedication to ensure that perpetrators of these crimes are brought to justice.”

Insp Fitzgerald encouraged more businesses to join the South Yorkshire Business Crime Charter, where retailers, retail centres and the police work together to reduce crime. 

The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners Joint Business and Retail Crime Leads, Katy Bourne OBE and Andy Dunbobbin said:  “This year, Safer Business Action Week is more important than ever before. 

“After witnessing the impact of violence and disorder this summer on businesses, independent retailers and high streets, it is vital that we highlight the critical role that businesses play in our local communities through employment, services and leisure.”

Pop-up stalls were situated around Sheffield to help police, members of the public and retail workers join forces in tackling shoplifting.

The week of action was launched by the National Business Crime Centre three years ago.

Insp Fitzgerald said: “I hope the results of Safer Business Action Week sends out the clearest message yet that shoplifting won’t be tolerated in South Yorkshire.

“If you are committing these crimes, the cameras are watching you and you will be brought before the courts and punished.”

To find out more about Safer Business Action Week visit https://nbcc.police.uk/