Plain cloth patrols - Wrotham Road CO-OP

I wanted to provide you an update regarding Shoplifting, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Hello All,

Today, officers from the West Heath Safer Neighbourhood Team conducted plain clothes patrols in and around the Co-op store on Wrotham Road.

At the most recent Ward Panel Meeting, concerns were raised by residents regarding ongoing shoplifting offences at this location. In response, officers carried out plain clothes patrols as part of our continued efforts to tackle retail crime and reassure the local community.

Patrols were conducted both inside the store and in the surrounding area, including Wrotham Road, Selsey Crescent and Axminster Crescent.

While officers were unfortunately unable to identify and arrest any prolific shoplifting offenders during today's operation, these targeted plain clothes patrols will continue in response to the ongoing concerns raised by residents and local businesses.

In addition, officers have been actively pursuing outstanding arrest warrants for wanted shoplifting offenders. This work remains ongoing and further enforcement activity will continue.

We would like to thank the community for its continued support and encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or has information relating to retail crime to report it to police.

Kind regards,

West Heath Safer Neighbourhood Team

Shoplifting is a crime that can have a substantial negative impact on local businesses across London. If you notice anything suspicious or witness anyone shoplifting, please report it as soon as possible. These reports are invaluable in letting us build a picture of when and where shop lifters operate, meaning we can be in the right place at the right time to arrest those responsible. 

For more guidance, see our page on how to spot a shoplifter.

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