In a bid to curb crime and bolster community safety, Swindon police officers joined forces with local businesses during a Safer Business Action Day in the heart of Swindon. This concerted effort aimed to address business-related crime while providing vital support to the local entrepreneurial landscape.
With an eye on reducing incidents like shoplifting, 75 establishments across Swindon benefited from the Safer Business Action (SaBA) day’s initiatives. This proactive approach is part of a nationwide effort, with police forces across the country dedicating the month of March to similar initiatives.
On the designated day, which took place last Saturday, 23rd March, local police undertook a range of activities:
- Three shoplifters were apprehended, one of whom was arrested and subsequently remanded in custody. The remaining two offenders were dealt with through Out Of Court Resolutions.
- Four individuals observed begging were respectfully moved on, with intelligence shared.
- 15 Intelligence reports concerning drugs, weapons, and antisocial behaviour.
- Seventy-five businesses were visited, engaging in a comprehensive survey to address any prevailing concerns.
- The ShopKind campaign, aimed at raising awareness about abuse towards shop workers, received backing with posters distributed to every store for display.
- A mobile van was stationed at Wharf Green, facilitating community engagement and outreach.
One notable arrest was that of Aaron Gleed, 34, of Frobisher Drive, who was charged with theft from a shop and subsequently remanded in custody. Gleed was set to appear at Swindon Magistrates Court yesterday.
Sergeant Claire Davidson underscored the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The SaBA days offer a prime opportunity to foster closer ties with retail businesses and address the actions of repeat offenders, particularly in cases of shoplifting and violence against business owners and staff.”
Davidson further stressed the prevalence of underreported crimes within the retail sector, urging greater information sharing to disrupt criminal activities effectively. By amplifying collaboration between law enforcement and local businesses, the aim is to prevent incidents, provide reassurance to the public, and safeguard commercial interests.
For retailers seeking guidance and support, avenues such as crime and violence prevention advice, alongside participation in the Force-wide Business Watch initiative through the Community Messaging system, are available. Additionally, members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and report instances of shoplifting directly to shop staff or Wiltshire Police.
The public can familiarise themselves with spotting shoplifters through resources available on the Wiltshire Police website. In the event of witnessing a crime in progress, individuals are urged to alert shop staff or promptly dial emergency services at 999.
