Wiltshire Police crack down hard on Swindon retail crime with six dispersal orders
In a blitz against retail crime and antisocial behaviour, Wiltshire Police slapped six Section 35 dispersal orders on troublemakers in Swindon town centre. The crackdown targeted hotspots during the National Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP) awareness week from 17 to 23 March.
Shoplifters Booted Out for 48 Hours
Each dispersal order bans offenders from entering specified areas for up to 48 hours. Officers hope this tough move will deter repeat culprits and shield local shops from further disruption amid soaring abuse and theft complaints.
Backing Businesses and Spreading ShopKind
Police also visited repeatedly targeted retailers to offer support and crime prevention tips. A big part of their push was raising the profile of the ShopKind campaign. Led by the Association of Convenience Stores and backed by the Home Office, ShopKind urges shoppers to respect retail workers who are under increasing attack.
The British Retail Consortium’s 2025 Retail Crime Survey reveals a grim picture: violence and abuse against shop staff have surged by over 50% in the last year. Meanwhile, around 55,000 thefts happen daily across the UK.
Sergeant Davidson: “Committed to Making Swindon Safe”
“The Swindon Central South policing team are committed to making Swindon safe for all,” said Sergeant Davidson. “This focused day of activity targeted retail crime prevention, offering support to retailers and highlighting the national ShopKind scheme.”
Officers teamed up with Swindon Borough Council’s Homelessness Prevention Team to provide help for vulnerable individuals encountered during patrols.
“We’re tackling retail crime and supporting our communities in line with Wiltshire Police’s Safer Public Spaces priority,” Sgt Davidson added. “We urge retailers and the public to report theft and abusive behaviour to the police.”
How to Report Retail Crime
Wiltshire Police urge anyone affected by or witnessing retail crime to report incidents via 101 or online at www.wiltshire.police.uk/ro/report. For emergencies, always dial 999.
Stay updated on local policing efforts via the Swindon Central South Police Facebook page.
