15:48 11 November 2023
Polish police report surge in shoplifting
Between January and September 2023, Polish police statistics show a 39 percent increase in shoplifting offenses compared to last year. The data for individual provincial police forces reveal even higher increases, higher than 50 percent and even 60 percent year-over-year.
Nearly 19 percent of shoplifting misdemeanors were committed in retail outlets during the same period. A large-format store is most likely to commit this type of lawbreaking.
As experts comment on the above data, they are not surprised, but they also find it alarming. There are several factors that could be contributing to the increase in shoplifting, including the rising cost of living, which makes it more difficult for people to afford necessities, and the easing of restrictions on social distancing, which has resulted in an increase in foot traffic in stores. Additionally, self-checkout systems have become increasingly popular.
However, experts say that more needs to be done to address the underlying causes of shoplifting, such as poverty and inequality.
(MondayNews)
