Police to teach Wellington retailers how to deal with drunk and aggressive shoplifters

Shoplifters are becoming more brazen in Wellington. Photo / File

Wellington shoplifters are said to be becoming more brazen in their bid to secure expensive items.

Retailers are noticing shoplifters are targeting high-end stores, dressing better and acting quickly.

First Retail spokeswoman Lorraine Nicholson said these shoplifters are usually under the influence of drugs or alcohol when offending.

In one case, a shoplifter hit four high-end stores in under four minutes, she said.

Nicholson said shoplifters have fiercely targeted stores over the last two weeks.

Constable Matt Barraclough said police will train Wellington retailers how to deal with drunken, aggressive people entering their stores.

He said retailers have been trained to spot shoplifters, but not to deal with the sort of behaviour being reported.

Training will start before Christmas.

- NewstalkZB