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ACT Policing continues to target retail related crime across Canberra, arresting 149 people from January to May this year, including a man charged with dozens of alcohol thefts, a man caught with a knife after stealing items, and a teenager on bail.
Shoplifting and anti-social behaviour at shops continues to be a concern for police, retailers, their staff and the wider community.
In January (2026), a 46-year-old man was arrested and charged for allegedly stealing alcohol on 12 separate occasions in Wright and Greenway. The next day he was arrested for breaching his bail conditions and was charged with a further 15 alcohol thefts in Wright, Greenway and Belconnen.
In April, police patrolling in Westfield Belconnen were alerted to a shoplifter who had verbally abused staff before he left the store. He was located at a nearby bus stop and a search of his belongings revealed a knife.
In May, a retail employee was assaulted when she confronted a group of youths who were stealing items. Three teenagers were arrested and one – a 15-year-old girl who was subject to bail conditions – was charged with assault.
ACT Policing works closely with retailers to deter anti-social behaviour, reduce theft, and improve safety for the public and staff.
Everyone should be safe at work and violence or threats of violence towards store employees will not be tolerated.
If you see someone you suspect is shoplifting, please consider your personal safety before confronting anyone. Incidents can be reported to staff, centre security or by providing information to Crime Stoppers via the Crime Stoppers ACT website.