Top UK Cop Slams Shop Security for Helping Gangs as Shoplifting Hits Crisis Levels
Sir Mark Rowley Sounds Alarm on Retailers’ Role in Shoplifting Epidemic
Britain’s most senior police officer has hit out at some shop security staff for allegedly working with organised shoplifting gangs. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley says retailers must do more to tackle soaring thefts blighting high streets.
Sir Mark blasted certain retailers for refusing to hand over CCTV footage and photos to police. Some stores even stop staff from giving witness statements or taking time off to attend court, he revealed.
Shoplifting Skyrockets: Nearly Three Thefts Every Minute
The government’s latest stats show shoplifting is out of control, with almost three thefts reported every minute nationwide. The British Retail Consortium reveals over 20 million shoplifting incidents hit UK shops in 2024 alone, costing retailers a staggering £2.2 billion.
- A whopping 97% of these crimes are never reported to the police.
- Official figures show 529,994 offences recorded in England and Wales up to June 2025.
- That marks a sharp rise since the pandemic crippled law enforcement capabilities.
“Retailers Need to Step Up” – Sir Mark’s Stark Warning
Speaking to The Telegraph, Sir Mark admitted retailers were right to criticise police inaction a few years back. But now the Met has doubled down on cracking down and is making gains.
“They were right to say to us, ‘please step up more’. And we have done. They need to step up more.”
“There are some who are fantastic, but I’m putting a marker down for those who aren’t playing their part.”
Facial Recognition Key, But Retailers Holding Police Back
Sir Mark revealed facial recognition tech helps identify suspects in 40% of cases when matched with CCTV and offender databases. Yet, a lack of retailer cooperation is holding back investigations.
- Shoplifting incidents dropped 4.4% in London between April and December, police say.
- Charges and penalties shot up 82%, showing a tougher stance.
- But detection rate in England and Wales remains a dismal 9%, the lowest in the UK.
On Friday, Sir Mark reportedly met West End retailers to hammer home the message: cooperation is key if shoplifters are to be stopped.
Stay tuned for more updates on the retail crime frontline.
