More than 30 people have been arrested following a week‑long operation targeting retail crime across Cheshire.
Cheshire Constabulary carried out Operation Watchmaker between 16 March and 22 March. Officers tackled a range of retail crime offences while engaging with retailers, security staff, business partners and members of the public.
A total of 32 arrests were made - 29 for shoplifting, two for robbery and one for breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order.
Police secured 49 individual charges across the week, including multiple charges for some suspects. One of those arrested was recalled to prison, while officers also issued 17 community resolutions and two Youth Restorative Disposals.
As part of the operation, officers completed 22 retrospective facial‑recognition submissions which resulted in 10 positive matches, the force said.
Chief Inspector Dan Reynolds said: “I am incredibly proud of the work our officers have put into this week of action. It has resulted in some fantastic results, including 32 arrests, multiple charges, plus valuable engagement with businesses and shoppers.
“The impact of retail crime cannot be underestimated and this national week of action from the National Association of Business Crime Partnerships is a testament to our collective ongoing efforts to tackle this issue head-on.
“While Operation Watchmaker may have concluded, this was just a snapshot of the policing tactics we use every day to help tackle shoplifting and other crimes against businesses. So, rest assured, our fight against those who choose to cause misery to local businesses continues.”
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