Shoplifting offences in Abergavenny have reduced by 60% compared to the same period last year as a result of a crime operation in Abergavenny.
The month long operation run by Gwent Police Officers from Abergavenny Neighbourhood Policing Team specifically targeted issues that are usually a problem in the lead up to the Christmas period such as shoplifting, burglaries and anti-social behaviour in the evenings on the town centre. This operation followed on from their summer campaign to tackle shoplifting and car crime in Abergavenny Town Centre.
A team of uniform and plain clothes officers were based around the town centre throughout the days and evenings targeting known shoplifting and burglary offenders. Officers patrolled the area and gave advice to shoppers on how to keep their belongings safe.
Throughout the evenings, officers targeted the pubs in the town to make sure all revellers behaved themselves and drank responsibly. Beermats, leaflets and posters were also distributed to all pubs to warn members of the public about the dangers of excessive drinking and its consequences. Officers targeted anti-social behaviour such as fighting, swearing or criminal damage.
During the operation five offenders were arrested for offences of theft, possession of drugs and breach of bail offences.
There were no reports of commercial burglary in the area during the operation and shed and garage burglaries have dropped by 13% across Abergavenny.
Neighbourhood Sergeant Tony Patey said, ‘We are pleased with the results of this operation, especially as the months leading up to the Christmas period are always a particularly busy time for us.
‘This operation is part of an ongoing operation in the town centre to target a variety of crimes and we will be continuing with our work.’
If you would like more information on the priorities that the Neighbourhood Team are working on in your area, please go to www.gwent.police.uk for more information.
