Police Arrest 93 Members of Shoplifting Gangs in £4 Million Retail Theft Crackdown

Operation Pegasus has targeted 28 organised crime groups, tackling a record surge in shoplifting across England and Wales.

A police unit launched in May 2024 has arrested 93 individuals tied to 28 organised crime groups responsible for over £4 million in retail losses.
The operation has identified 228 previously unknown offenders and 70 vehicles involved in organised retail theft across the UK.
Shoplifting has reached a 20-year high, with 469,788 offences recorded in the year to June 2024, a 29% increase from the previous year.
Three individuals jailed last month for stealing £200,000 worth of goods, including a £4,500 champagne spree, were part of a gang linked to 800 offences nationwide.
Officials emphasize the need for continued efforts, allocating £5 million over three years to combat retail crime and strengthen community safety.