Overview

• Stefan Genth said shoplifting losses soared to €3 billion in 2024, marking a 20% increase since 2022.
• Professional theft rings have been targeting city center stores for high-value items such as perfume, shoes and electronics to resell on the grey market.
• Incidents of violent lone offenders attacking staff when confronted have risen, heightening safety concerns.
• Only 2% of shoplifting cases are reported to police, with many prosecutions dropped for efficiency reasons.
• The HDE is demanding urgent legal reforms, increased security investment and stronger judicial resources to counter professional gangs and aggressive individuals.