CCTV catches shoplifter image

Retailers often complain about the shoplifting and general crime in their retail outlets here in South Africa. “It’s not like this in the rest of the world” they comment.

But crime is a human condition that has little to do with geography and more to do with desperation and greed and here is a typical example.  From appearances a middle class every day person caught shoplifting: -

Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses after a shoplifting from Waitrose in Twyford.

The shoplifting occurred at around 1pm on 10 December.
PC Chris Harrison, from the Twyford neighbourhood policing team, said: “We would like to speak to the woman in the image with regard to a shoplifting in the store, which was reported by staff.

“It is believed that items were placed in a black handbag in the trolley and that no attempts to pay were made.

The woman left in a black 4×4 vehicle and is described as white, in her late 30s to 40s, slim, 5ft 8ins, with dark hair. At the time of the offence she was wearing a white blouse, black shirt, black tights with black high heeled shoes with a beige overcoat and grey scarf. She had spectacles on her head.

Anyone with information about this woman should contact PC Harrrison at Twyford police office via 0845 8 505 505.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to talk to the police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Whilst it is unlikely that anyone in South Africa may be able to help on this it is a message to all retailers – are your cctv surveillance systems up to scratch – are they working, are they reliable and are they monitored.