Rapid Rise In Shoplifting In Market Harborough

There is concern at a big increase in shoplifting in Market Harborough.

209 thefts have been reported to police in the past year – a 59% increase on the previous 12 months, when the number stood at 131.

Gareth Thomas, president of Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce, spoke to HFM:

Market Harborough Town Centre

Leicestershire Police are stepping up efforts to target shoplifters in Market Harborough, with a dedicated officer now investigating theft offences.

The force says it is aware of the impact shoplifting can have on businesses, particularly independent traders.

Sgt Pete Jelbert from Market Harborough Police Station spoke to HFM:

Harborough District Council has also recently launched a new app-based system called DISC to allow traders to easily share information with each other, including details of ‘persons of interest’.

It is being provided free-of-charge to businesses for two years and has proved successful in other areas where it has been used.