A two-day police operation targeting retail theft across Tasmania has resulted in 38 arrests and the recovery of stolen goods worth thousands of dollars.
The coordinated blitz took place last week across major shopping hubs in Hobart, Launceston, Devonport and Burnie, involving 35 businesses operating 70 stores statewide.
Police processed 60 offenders in total, with 16 receiving summonses and six youths diverted to support programs.
Offenders ranged from 13 to 55 years old, with the vast majority identified as repeat offenders.
Inspector John Toohey said the operation showed the effectiveness of collaboration between police, retailers and the community.
“Retail crime impacts businesses, staff and customers. This operation shows what can be achieved when we work collaboratively to create safer shopping environments,” he said.
The operation deployed officers strategically to high-risk areas with real-time communication support from retailers, allowing for rapid response to offences as they occurred.
Tasmania Police utilised resources from multiple taskforces including Saturate, Accountable, Respect, Scelus and Raven, alongside uniformed officers, detectives and specialist units.
Some retailers also employed covert security teams to support the effort.
Commonly targeted items recovered during the operation included clothing, sunglasses, groceries and household goods.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania chair David Daniels highlighted the success of their “Know Them? Name Them!” campaign, which has helped identify almost 70 suspects over seven months.
“We encourage people to visit crimestopperstas.com.au and view the open cases,” Daniels said
“This is a chance for people to speak up and help police, help local business and help the community as a whole.”
Inspector Toohey confirmed similar operations are planned for the future, saying that “the strong presence of law enforcement and the vigilance of retailers play a critical role in deterring opportunistic theft and disrupting ongoing criminal activity.”
The public is encouraged to report retail crime to police on 131 444 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
