A CRACKDOWN on shoplifting in Gorleston has resulted in nine people being banned from the town's stores. Officers from the town's Safer Neighbourhood Team have continued with increased patrols following a campaign over the festive period.

A CRACKDOWN on shoplifting in Gorleston has resulted in nine people being banned from the town's stores.

Officers from the town's safer neighbourhood team have continued with increased patrols following a campaign over the festive period.

The number of thefts reported to police since the operation began has reduced and nine people have been issued with exclusion notices from the Gorleston retail partnership.

In January there were two offences of shoplifting reported, compared to five in December and four in November.

Throughout the operation seven people have either been charged or dealt with in others way for shoplifting.

Inspector Richard Graveling said: “CCTV continues to play a key role in identifying offenders and it is hoped further offences will be detected as a result of these good images.

“I would like to remind people that we will continue to take firm action against anyone caught shoplifting in Gorleston.”