These are some of the shocking moments where supermarkets have been targeted by crooks in an epidemic that has seen an average of 1,000 incidents a day.
Major chains including John Lewis, Asda and the Co-op have been targeted by organised criminal gangs as crimes with shoplifting soaring by 26 per cent in the past year, according to the British Retail Consortium.
Many of the stores blame police for the surge in the disturbing crimes as families struggle amid the cost of living crisis.
One survey by the BRC says 56 per cent of retailers rated the police response as ‘fair’ – with others declaring it even worse.
The problem has become so serious the Home Office has ploughed funding into trying to stem the flood of illegality.
A spokesperson said: ‘Theft is down 20 per cent compared to pre pandemic levels. However, we recognise the impact that theft can have on retailers which is why we are supporting police by providing funding for crime prevention means.
‘The Government’s anti-social behaviour action plan, which is backed by £160million of funding will make our communities safer by ensuring perpetrators face swift and visible justice, tougher punishments and introduce early interventions to reduce this behaviour.’
