Officers from the South Richmond Safer Neighbourhoods Team have launched a two-day operation targeting shoplifting in the area.

At 11am today (Wednesday, 25 February), Sgt Richard Wright said officers would be carrying out plain clothes patrols and responding swiftly to reports of theft.

He said: "Just to let you know, the two days of action to reduce shoplifting begin today. Officers will be carrying out patrols in plain clothes and will react to any shoplifting matters.

"I will provide regular updates accordingly."

By early afternoon, an arrest had already been made.

At 1.24pm Sgt Wright confirmed that a "well known shoplifter" had been arrested on suspicion of non-residential burglary at Marks & Spencer.

He said the suspect was spotted by security staff stealing a number of food items and was intercepted while attempting to leave the store.

The man has been taken to a police station for further questioning.

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Police say further updates will be provided as the operation continues.

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