17/04/2009 - Thefts rise despite fall in crime
Shoplifting and thefts by employees in London have increased despite an overall reduction in crime in the city, according to police figures.
The Metropolitan Police said that there were 18,621 fewer victims of crime in the capital in the financial year 2008-9. But, although crime in London was at its lowest for more than 10 years, business crime was up 11% compared with the previous year, the force said.
Commander Paul Minton said that while the overall figures highlighted a positive achievement, the increase in shoplifting and thefts by employees had led to major retailers security tagging everyday items. He added that the jump in these types of crimes may be linked to the tough economic times.
The figures also showed a decline in most types of serious crime including murder, which was down 4%, youth violence, robbery, and gun crime, which fell by more than 25%. However, hate crimes such as domestic violence and racist and homophobic attacks rose by between 4% and 13%.
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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