Three women have been arrested after suspected stolen cosmetic products worth up to £100,000 were seized by Merseyside Police. The arrests followed five raids carried out in Kirkby and Walton in the early hours of Friday, October 23, as part of an investigation into large-scale, high-value thefts.
Raids and Seizures
Officers from Sefton's Neighbourhood Team Two led the operation, which resulted in the seizure of a retail unit containing cosmetic products suspected of being stolen, with a potential value of £100,000.
A 60-year-old woman from Kirkby was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft and four counts of theft. A 37-year-old woman from Walton was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft and 10 counts of theft.
Arrests and Custody
A 58-year-old woman from Eccleston was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft and handling stolen goods. All three women remain in police custody for questioning.
Chief Inspector Dave Uren, of the Sefton neighbourhood team, said: "Today's activity forms part of our ongoing efforts to tackle retail crime and shoplifting across Merseyside. These warrants send a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue those responsible for offending in our communities.
Impact on Communities
"Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. It has a significant impact on businesses, staff and customers, creating fear, financial loss and disruption.
"We are committed to identifying offenders, disrupting criminal activity and working with retailers and partners to make our town centres and shopping areas safer.
"Those who repeatedly target shops often cause wider harm within our communities, and we will continue to take robust action against them."
