Sarwar commits to tackling shoplifting after rise in offences

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has committed to tackling rising shoplifting if elected as first minister next year, accusing the Scottish Government of a “soft-touch approach”.

Figures released in June show a 57% increase in shoplifting in the past decade and a jump of 16% between 2023-24 and 2024-25, with 44,730 instances recorded in the most recent year.

Since before Holyrood returned, Mr Sarwar has attempted to paint a tougher image of Labour in Scotland as next May’s election looms.

In promising shopkeepers he would cut the number of offences, Mr Sarwar criticised declining police numbers and punishments for shoplifting, saying he would end the “soft-touch approach” of the current Government.

On a visit to a retail business on Wednesday, the Labour leader is expected to say: “For too long, yobs have been getting away with committing crime in our communities while the SNP turns away.

“Shoplifting is a crime that makes the whole community feel unsafe and hikes financial pressure on local businesses that are already struggling to get by.

“The SNP have allowed police numbers to be cut to the bone and as a result too many people just no longer feel safe in the own local areas. The ineffective fines that are dished out do next to nothing to deter the criminals.

“Enough is enough.

“As First Minister, I will end the soft-touch approach of the SNP and stand up for our businesses.

“I will support the police in their work to clamp down on shoplifting and make sure those guilty of the crime are actually punished.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “While reported crime has fallen by more than half since 1991, we recognise the significant harm and disruption caused by retail crime which is why we have provided an additional £3 million to Police Scotland to specifically tackle the issue, which is part of a record investment of £1.64 billion for policing this year.

“Police Scotland has established the Retail Crime Taskforce that is targeting affected areas to prevent crime and pursue those responsible and works with retailers to identify ways in which they can enhance security.”