Social media sleuths are helping Tasmania Police catch shoplifters, with nearly 60% of suspects in a new campaign already identified by the public.
The “Know Them? Name Them” initiative has turned Facebook users into digital detectives, with some suspects named within minutes of their photos being posted online.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania General Manager Aldo Antolli said the campaign, launched eight weeks ago, has already helped identify 11 out of 19 targeted offenders.
“We know in most cases, these people are known to someone and we are asking the community to help us identify them,” he said.
“Everyone should have the right to go to work, go shopping or enjoy our public spaces without fear of threat or intimidation.”
One eagle-eyed local even prompted a suspect to hand themselves in voluntarily after their image was shared.
Retail theft costs Australian retailers up to $9 billion every year.
“Shoplifting costs all of us in the end, because the losses are eventually passed on to the consumer,” Antolli said.
Bunnings North Launceston manager Matt Edwards said the initiative was a positive step towards safer workplaces.
“Keeping our team, customers and suppliers safe in and around our stores is our number one priority and we’re hopeful this initiative will make a difference,” he said.
People can share information anonymously through the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1800 333 000.
Several suspects have already been charged after police followed up on the community tip-offs.
Antolli said photos and details of alleged shoplifters will continue to be posted on the Crime Stoppers Facebook page and website.
“Any identification provided to Crime Stoppers is always treated anonymously. We don’t need to know who you are, just what you know,” he said.
