A new police initiative is set to tackle shoplifting in Wrexham.

The Wrexham City Neighbourhood Policing Team will carry out Operation Blizzard over the next couple of months to support retailers who are targeted by shoplifting offences.

Sam Rowlands, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, is backing the new police initiative to crack down on shoplifting in Wrexham.

Mr Rowlands said: "As we head towards the busy festive season I welcome this timely initiative from North Wales Police and I am delighted to hear that dedicated officers will be on patrol around the city to support retailers.

"Unfortunately retail crime appears to be on the increase, although it is great to hear from North Wales Police that offences have reduced in the city and I welcome news of a special operation being set up to target shoplifters.

"Local shops do need the support of the police to help crack down on retail crime and increasing their visibility just might make some shoplifters think twice about committing a crime."

Dedicated officers will increase their visibility through carrying out proactive patrols around the city and at hotspot areas, both on foot and on bike in a bid to tackle and reduce business-related crime.

The operation will also see officers engaging with the community and talking to shop owners to understand concerns around local retail crime, identify offenders and offer crime prevention advice.

READ MORE:

Wrexham City Inspector Heidi Stokes said: "Retail crime is a continuous demand within Wrexham city and our local officers are working every day with local businesses and partner organisations to quickly identify offenders and deal with them robustly.

"This year-to-date, offences of retail theft have reduced in the city, which is reflective of the hard work officers and staff have put into combatting it.

"In the weeks leading up to Christmas when retail theft can increase, Operation Blizzard aims to further support the retail sector by increasing visibility in the city and maintaining regular contact with retailers.

"Shoplifting and retail theft is regarded as a victimless crime but is detrimental to local businesses.

"The impact is significant on staff, other customers who are present and the businesses themselves.

"Staff should also not have to go to work for fear of being subjected to abuse or threatening behaviour."