A SPECIAL police operation in Petersfield targeting shoplifters has cut the Christmas crime figures.
Police joined forces with local traders and the townÕs existing Shop Watch scheme to combat retail crime.
Over the Christmas period officers in plain clothes supported uniformed police and store detectives to tackle shoplifting throughout the town.
Patrols were carried out in the townÕs shops and extra support was given to the monitored CCTV facility.
Inspector Steve Sargent described the operation as a big success. ÒThe operation was targeted towards retail crime and those who use theft to finance drug habits,Ó he said.
ÒPetersfield like other rural towns has been a target of travelling criminals for a number of years and this was again reflected by those being arrested.Ó
Ryan Mundy, (20) a ground worker from Southampton, was charged with theft from Boots and possession of cannabis.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in court today (Friday).
Two people from Surrey were arrested during the initiative and have been bailed for further enquiries. One person received a caution for a theft offence.
Petersfield town manager Steve Johnston says the successful operation will Òwork wonders for the townÓ.
He said: ÒI think Petersfield is very fortunate to have police who are willing to put in this much effort.
ÒShoplifting is something that increases dramatically at this time of year. I think a scheme like this has got to be a benefit not only for the traders, but for the shoppers who will feel safer to know that measures like this are being taken.
ÒAt this time of year there is a lot of pickpocketing from people in shops to look out for as well.Ó
Mr Johnston said PetersfieldÕs Shop Watch initiative is also a valuable scheme in the town and is urging more traders to take part.
He said: ÒQuite a few shop owners in Petersfield have joined the scheme which involves traders using a radio system.
ÒIf someone is spotted acting suspiciously in one part of the town, traders all over get a description. This includes people who are using dodgy cheques or fake £20 notes.
ÒThe whole system is based at the townÕs CCTV control centre and includes the police who are tuned in.Ó
He added: ÒThe Shop Watch scheme is a great system but it could do with a few more people taking part.
ÒThe danger is that if shoplifters learn who is taking part they will target those who are not.Ó
The retail crime operation has also been carried out in other East Hampshire towns such as Alton and Bordon.
Mr Johnston hopes Petersfield police can build on the success of the initiative and use it as a deterrent to people who would visit the town to commit retail crime.
He said: ÒIf the police can carry out schemes like this in the future and let people know the results, it will work wonders for the town. ItÕs a great way to crack down on this problem.Ó