Twelve arrested in crackdown on city centre shoplifters

Officers have also made 49 arrests as part of Operation Lumley, a force-wide initiative to tackle anti-social behaviour, in hot-spot areas of Newport.

Gwent Police continues to recognise that shoplifting and anti-social behaviour can have a major impact on our communities, both on individuals and businesses.

Theft, and particularly shoplifting is not a victimless crime and it’s crucial that every shoplifting incident is reported to us.

As part of Operation Tinsel, our Christmas crackdown on retail crime, we arrested 12 people for shoplifting offences in Newport city centre.

Reports of shoplifting in the city centre in December were 20 per cent lower than in July 2024, according to our latest crime statistics.

And, this week, our Police Community Support Officers hand-delivered posters to more than 30 city centre businesses to help deter thieves from their premises.

Our officers continue to carry out dedicated patrols in Newport city centre in addition to Operation Lumley, a force-wide initiative set-up to tackle anti-social behaviour in hot-spot areas.

We’ve made 49 arrests as part of this ongoing operation in Newport, carried out 38 stop-searches and issued 17 community resolution notices.

We continue to work closely with Newport City Council in addressing street drinking and other concerns, such as the illegal use of e-scooters, through public space protection orders (PSPOs).

Superintendent Jason White said: “I want to reassure all businesses, shoppers and visitors to Newport city centre that we’re listening to your concerns.

“We recognise that collaboration and working with our partners is key to tackling issues - that include shoplifting and anti-social behaviour - within our communities.

"Reports of shoplifting across the city centre fell between July and December 2024 and these latest crime figures provide evidence that, through working with our partners, we’re heading in the right direction. But the work doesn’t stop here.

"We remain focused on targeting prolific and habitual offenders whose behaviour causes misery to our communities, and we’re committed to working closely with licensees, community safety officers and ambassadors to make life safer in Newport city centre for everyone.

“Please continue to report your concerns to us. I would encourage local businesses that need help and support in addressing shoplifting and retail theft, to get in touch with us.

"Our specialist officers are always happy to speak to staff and managers of local businesses, and visit stores to provide crime prevention advice and support."

If you see any unusual activity, report it to us by calling 101, messaging us on social media, reporting it online: https://www.gwent.police.uk/ro/report/.

Always dial 999 in an emergency.