In a pre-Christmas enforcement drive, investigators across north Kent, Medway, and Swale detained multiple shoplifting suspects involved in thefts from local businesses. The arrests were part of proactive patrols conducted on Saturday, 21 December 2024.
Arrests and Charges
Lewis O’Brien
A man identified as Lewis O’Brien, 34, of High Street, Chatham, was arrested in connection with a series of thefts from shops in Queenborough, Sittingbourne, Rochester, and Maidstone dating back to Monday, 9 December.
The stolen property, valued at over £400, included confectionery, clothing, alcohol, cosmetics, and toys from retailers such as Asda, B&M, and Poundland.
Mr. O’Brien has been charged with eight counts of theft and appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 December. He was remanded in custody and is due to reappear on Monday, 13 January 2025.
Further Arrests
- Haydn Inglis, 31, of Canterbury Street, Gillingham, was arrested for the alleged theft of cleaning products worth £70 from a shop on Watling Street, Chatham.
- At Bluewater Shopping Centre, officers detained Joel Babika, 39, of Vanguard Way, Wallington, London, and Gilbert Waigo, 40, of Lindsey Close, Mitcham, London. The pair were charged with three thefts involving New Look, Primark, and H&M, where clothing and jewellery were reportedly stolen.
Both Mr. Inglis, Mr. Babika, and Mr. Waigo were conditionally bailed to appear before Medway Magistrates’ Court on 16 January 2024.
Continued Enforcement
The crackdown extended into Sunday, 22 December, resulting in further arrests:
- A 37-year-old woman from Chatham was detained on suspicion of theft and assaulting a store employee in Walderslade.
- A 34-year-old man from Chatham was arrested in connection with the theft of wine, food products, and toys valued at over £240 from shops in Gillingham.
Police Statement
Chief Inspector Garry Cook emphasised the importance of protecting local businesses during the busy holiday season:
“We are determined to protect our local businesses from both organised and opportunist criminals. We will seek to charge anyone arrested on suspicion of shoplifting and, where appropriate, ensure they have a prompt appearance before the magistrates.”
The enforcement drive highlights the commitment of Police to deter retail crime and ensure a safe shopping environment for businesses and the community during the festive period.
