Police have recovered more than $2000 worth of stolen items, including clothes, high-value meat products, and cosmetics, as part of the operation targeting retail thefts in the central business district.
Over the past year, thefts from retails stores across the state have increased by 34 per cent, with essential items including food, alcohol and groceries targeted.
Police said this trend was likely influenced by inflation, cost-of-living pressures and high interest rates.
Shepparton has seen an 18 per cent increase in retail store thefts over the past year.
Police intelligence indicates as many as 50 per cent of those stealing were first-time shop stealers, while a quarter were first-time criminals.
During the Shepparton operation, police worked with plain-clothes loss prevention officers from retailers who were on the lookout for anyone looking to steal.
Key results from the operation include 32 people arrested for a range of alleged offences, including shop theft, drug possession and possessing controlled weapons.
Among the incidents were a 27-year-old Shepparton man who was arrested after allegedly stealing about $100 worth of items from two stores, including clothing and energy drinks.
He was charged with two counts of shop theft and bailed to appear at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court in February.
Police also arrested a 48-year-old Shepparton man for allegedly stealing more than $200 worth of cosmetics from two stores.
He was charged with shop theft and bailed to appear at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court in March.
Anyone with information about shop thefts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
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