Addressing the Rise of Trafficked Shoplifters in the UK

Understanding the Problem

A recent BBC report has brought to light a serious issue in the UK: Eastern European crime groups are using vulnerable women and children to shoplift. This problem is widespread, affecting cities like Scotland, London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Darlington.

The Scale of the Issue

In Scotland alone, a gang with 154 members has been identified, involved in stealing valuable items for resale. Retailers Against Crime (RAC) and Police Scotland have been closely monitoring this group. Alarmingly, it includes children trafficked into the UK for the purpose of shoplifting.

The Human Cost

Behind these statistics are heartbreaking stories of exploitation. These individuals, especially the children, are living under difficult circumstances, forced into committing crimes. Their plight is a stark reminder of the human cost of these criminal activities.

Maxine Fraser, RAC’s managing director, collaborates with Police Scotland and over 1,500 stores in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and North England. She stated that since 2019, RAC has been monitoring a Glasgow-based 154-member gang, known for shoplifting across the UK and involving trafficked children, including four girls who joined in 2019. Currently, about 15 children, aged 12-14, are in this group. Despite frequent arrests, short sentences lead to a continuous cycle of shoplifting.

How The Shoplifting Works

Adam Ratcliffe, a former police officer leading the Safer Business Network, has extensively reviewed CCTV and police records to understand a gang’s operations. He discovered they primarily target cosmetic stores, stealing fragrances, luxury face creams, and other high-value items by accessing secure storage areas. Groups of five to seven enter the stores, quickly filling their bags with stolen goods. While men are involved, typically orchestrating from a distance, the gang often uses young women for the actual theft, as they attract less suspicion from security and staff. Ratcliffe emphasises the exploitation involved, with those committing the crimes living in dire conditions and facing significant risks, while receiving little in return. He describes their lives as extremely difficult, marked by exploitation and poor living conditions, often crowded in unsanitary accommodations.

The Impact on Retailers

For UK shops, the financial impact is substantial – losses amounted to approximately £953 million last year. However, the problem runs deeper, with these shoplifting operations linked to other serious crimes like drug trafficking and human trafficking.

Our Role at Get Licensed

At Get Licensed, we believe in the power of awareness and training in combating these issues. Security professionals play a crucial role. They should be trained not only in preventing theft but also in recognising signs of coercion among shoplifters. Such awareness can lead to timely interventions and potentially save lives.

Collaborative Efforts for a Solution

Tackling this issue requires a united front. Collaboration between law enforcement, security industry professionals, social workers, and the broader community is essential. Educating the public about the signs of trafficking and exploitation, especially in retail settings, is a critical step towards a solution.

Conclusion

The revelations in the BBC report are disturbing, but they also provide an opportunity for organisations like ours to make a real difference. At Get Licensed, we are committed to equipping our trainees with the knowledge and skills to address these challenges effectively. By working together, we can strive towards a safer and more compassionate society, where the wellbeing of every individual is a priority.

Start Working In Security

If you’re interested in beginning a career in security, our comprehensive courses offer the perfect starting point. Whether you aspire to be a Door Supervisor, a vigilant CCTV Operator, or a dedicated Security Officer, we provide the essential training you need. Our courses are designed to equip you with the skills to effectively handle various situations, including identifying and managing shoplifters. By enrolling in our programs, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to operate effectively in any security role.