Thirteen people have been charged with more than 30 offences following a coordinated day of action targeting retail crime across the North East of Scotland.
On Tuesday 9 September, Police Scotland carried out proactive patrols and enforcement activity across communities in Aberdeenshire and Moray, supported by the national Retail Crime Taskforce and partners at Retailers Against Crime.
The operation led to the detection of 35 offences in a single day.
Those arrested now face charges including shoplifting, thefts from tills, assaults and robberies involving retail staff, possession of bladed weapons, and outstanding warrants.
Other crimes uncovered included drug offences, antisocial behaviour, and breaches of bail.
Detective Chief Inspector Jackie Knight of the Retail Crime Taskforce welcomed the results.
“This positive collaborative working with retail partners and Retailers Against Crime is vital as we detect and deter these types of offences,” she said.
“I’d like to thank the retailers and partners who took part in the briefings and supported the enforcement work and who we’ll continue working with in future.”
The operation is part of Police Scotland’s wider effort to clamp down on acquisitive crime and improve safety for staff working in retail settings.
Detective Inspector Andy Machray, who leads on acquisitive crime for the North East Division, said retail crime remains a clear priority.
“Local officers continue to work alongside colleagues in the Retail Crime Taskforce to identify offenders and bring them to justice,” he said.
“Retail workers deserve to feel safe and supported and that’s what we’re working towards.”
Reports will now be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
