There has been a sharp increase in theft-related crimes in South Australia, predominantly fueled by shoplifting.
The latest monthly crime statistics released by SA Police reveal shoplifting has risen by 29 per cent over the past year.
Police Commissioner Grant Stevens said the increase was not just a state problem, but a national trend attributed to a range of socio-economic factors.
Police said the overall level of shoplifting was still “significantly higher than the previous reporting period”, despite the number of reports dropping.
“In SA, police have been working proactively with the retail sector and individual businesses in the city that have been frequently targeted to reduce the harm caused by recidivist offenders,” Stevens said.
“This significant factor has contributed to businesses increasing their reporting which has in turn assisted police in combating the problem.
“While such reporting elevates the statistics for shop theft, it gives a much clearer picture of the extent of the problem while at the same time providing greater opportunities to both apprehend and deter recidivist offenders.
“This increased reporting trend is expected to continue and will further elevate the statistics.”
Almost 58 per cent of shop theft offences were committed in the city, with Rundle Mall a hot spot.
Other locations also recording higher rates of offending include service stations and bottle shops across the metropolitan area.
