Roadshow to give advice about retail crime risks
Last updated | 06/05/2008
A special roadshow designed to advise businesses about the risks of theft from their stores and shoppers will be held in Perth next Tuesday (18 March 2008).
There has been a recent increase in this type of crime throughout the country, with criminal gangs, mainly from eastern Europe, stealing from individual shoppers and checkout operators.
The roadshow has been organised by a partnership of Tayside Police, Perth City Centre Management and the Scottish Business Crime Centre and will be held at the Salutation Hotel in South Street from 9.30 to 10.30am. The co-ordinator from ”Retailers Against Crime” at the Scottish Business Crime Centre will give a presentation on the issue. Managers of business premises and security staff in Perth have been invited to attend.
Retail Liaison Officer Constable Carol Cameron said: “There are several ways in which these kinds of gangs steal. Normally they work in groups of around three people, including men and women. Many of their targets are elderly shoppers who will be engaged in conversation by one member of the gang to distract them while another steals the shopper's purse or handbag. Other gang members will act as lookouts for store security staff. Often the victim will not know they have had their property stolen until they reach the checkout and find their purse gone. Another frequently-used method is to confuse staff at counters and try to convince them to hand over the wrong change during a transaction. This particular crime type is often known as “Ringing the Changes” as the till rings when it is opened and the notes are changed.”
Crime Reduction Officer Donald Campbell gave some general crime prevention advice for shoppers: "Be aware of others around you, your bag and purse when shopping. Don’t be distracted by that bargain on the shelves or by a stranger asking you where an item is in store. Make sure your bag and purse is within view at all times or kept close to you. Check it is safe regularly during your visit to a store. Don’t leave it in a shopping trolley whilst you look for items. If you see anyone acting suspiciously near you or other shoppers tell security or a member of staff immediately.”
