In a swift and concerted effort to tackle retail crime, police in East Kent have secured more than 30 shoplifting charges within a four-day period, signalling an intense crackdown on thieves targeting local supermarkets.
The operation has brought to light several high-value thefts, with losses exceeding £1,500 reported at major stores, including Tesco in Folkestone, Dover, and Faversham, and Waitrose in Hythe, over the summer months between May and August 2025.
Key arrests have led to significant charges against multiple individuals including
- A man aged 38, from Canterbury, who was arrested on Monday, October 13, 2025, and subsequently charged in connection with 13 separate thefts. He has been bailed to appear at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court next month.
- A 36-year-old man was charged with eight counts of theft following his arrest on Wednesday, October 15, relating to shoplifting at the Co-op in Canterbury between August and September. He was remanded to appear before Margate magistrates.
- A man aged 31, from Broadstairs, faced ten charges on October 16, following an investigation into thefts from supermarkets in Herne Bay and Margate. The stolen items in this case were valued at around £1,000. The man was remanded in custody to appear before Margate Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
The rapid succession of arrests and charges demonstrates the police’s commitment to protecting local businesses and consumers from the impact of persistent retail theft.
Police Sergeant Katie Townsend said: “Shoplifting is never a victimless crime and we do not underestimate the damaging impact it has on businesses and communities that are targeted. Tackling retail crime is a responsibility that we take seriously, and business owners should continue to report incidents to us, either online or by calling 999 if a crime is in progress. This helps us to identify trends and ensure incidents are dealt with promptly and robustly.”