BETHAL – Const Thomas Mogadime, communications officer of the local police, said multiple shoplifting cases have already been opened this month.
“Merchandise is often concealed in a purse, a pocket or a bag.”
Shoplifters come in all ages and sexes and vary in ethnic background, education and economic status.
Some shoplifters steal out of peer pressure and some are mentally ill and do not know any better.
“Some are desperate from drug addiction, alcoholism and others take advantage of the foreigners with businesses and other big retailers, thinking they can afford the loss, but that does not give anyone the right to steal from the stores.”
Theft from stores, including employee and vendor theft, cost retailers millions of rand per year which affects the store’s financial performance and profitability.
Const Thomas Mogadime said shoplifting can destroy one’s future, no matter how big or small the merchandise or goods stolen are.
People who commit shoplifting in order to support their habits or addictions, must bare in mind that if they are found stealing from any store, they will be arrested and prosecuted.
He also said that the legal consequences of shoplifting can include all of the following penalties, namely imprisonment, punitive fines and community service.
“Offenders are often prohibited from entering the place from which they had stolen goods.”
He further emphasised that to combat these losses, merchants or retail managers have to take extreme measures to control and reduce shoplifting.
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