Glasgow Shopowner's 100+ Robbery Reports Yield Zero Prosecutions
A shopowner in Glasgow has revealed the shocking reality of running a small business in the city centre, having reported over 100 robberies since opening his store last November without a single prosecution resulting from his efforts.
Mohammad Sheikh, proprietor of News Plus on Sauchiehall Street, described how his business has been targeted 'every day' by shoplifters, with the situation escalating beyond simple theft to include multiple assaults on staff members.
A Daily Battle Against Brazen Thieves
Disturbing CCTV footage from the store captures numerous incidents where individuals and groups openly ransack the premises. In one particularly alarming sequence, a person holding a bat jumps over the counter, tearing down the protective perspex screen in the process.
Other footage shows thieves brazenly helping themselves to items from shelves, while some go behind the counter to steal vapes and other valuable goods. In separate incidents, staff members have been physically pushed aside and had items thrown at them.
'They target us instead of the bigger shops because they have security guards and loads of staff, and we don't,' Mohammad explained, highlighting the vulnerability of small retailers.
Police Response Leaves Business Owner Feeling Abandoned
Despite filing over 100 reports with Police Scotland in the past year, Mohammad claims authorities have done nothing to catch culprits or prevent further incidents. 'The police tell us we can't touch them, can't stop them, and can't lock them in the store to await officers arriving,' he revealed.
The only advice offered by police has been to have two staff members on duty at all times - something the struggling business cannot afford. 'Even if we could, we could have ten staff in here and it wouldn't make a difference because we're powerless against them,' Mohammad added.
The relentless crime has cost the business approximately £20,000 since opening last November, leaving Mohammad unsure if he can continue operating.
Repeat Offenders and Impact on Glasgow's Reputation
Mohammad identified that most incidents occur around 5 or 6pm and involve 'groups of young boys, between five and ten at a time' who he believes are repeat offenders known to police.
The situation has become so severe that it's damaging Glasgow's reputation. Mohammad recalled an incident where tourists witnessed a repeat offender causing havoc and immediately left the store. 'What an advert for the city,' he sighed.
After more than 20 years of owning shops in Glasgow, Mohammad describes this location as 'the worst trouble he has ever had' and would definitely not recommend opening a business on Sauchiehall Street to others.
A staff member described the environment as 'really scary', adding that 'you don't know if they could be carrying a weapon' when thieves reach behind the counter.
Police Scotland Inspector Jonathan Watters stated that officers are aware of recent incidents and are liaising with the business. He highlighted that a dedicated Retail Crime Taskforce has recently been established in Glasgow to enhance enforcement and intelligence gathering for retail crimes.
However, for Mohammad and his staff, the promised support comes too late. 'We should be protected by the police, and they definitely aren't right now,' he said. 'There's not enough patrols and not enough police on the streets - there's so much crime now.'
