Action day in Bearwood brings success

Operation Peppermint – of Sandwell response to shoplifting, there was a day of action around Bearwood Road with extra patrols and an increased number of police present.

Officers carried out high visibility patrols and engaged with store workers about the thefts and listened to their concerns.

As part of the operation, police identify hotspots such as Bearwood Road and train patrols to be there when shoplifting is most common.

In partnership with Sandwell Council, the police also have a high street retail radio scheme which allows staff to speak to police officers and other shops if they see any suspicious activity.

Radios also allowed the exchange of information and any theft trends between companies and officers.

Along Bearwood Road, there are several CCTV cameras to improve safety for shoppers, businesses and residents.

The cameras are linked wirelessly to Sandwell Council’s CCTV control room where they are monitored by licensed agents.

The footage was a vital tool in helping identify the suspects.

Over the past few weeks, a number of arrests have been made for thefts in Sandwell and persistent offenders have been identified.

As a result of our partnership with businesses in Sandwell, two of the most prolific thieves have been jailed,

Sergeant Jason Walters of Smethwick Borough Team said: “Shoplift remains a priority for us in Sandwell and we understand how frustrating it is for shop workers and customers alike.

“The neighborhood team has built a good relationship with businesses on Bearwood Road and know the names and faces of persistent offenders.

“It is so important that we speak to your officers when we are on the streets and let us know of any concerns and any information about thefts.

“We also strongly encourage stores to install good CCTV which will allow us to capture suspects and use facial recognition software to identify them. This then provides a greater chance of the offenders being prosecuted.

“But ultimately, we need shop workers to report every theft offence, no matter how big or small the financial value.

“If you don’t report, we can’t take action”

You can do this by calling 101 or via Live Chat on our website. Always call 999 in an emergency.