Shepparton retail theft operation leads to more than 200 arrests

Victoria Police launched Operation Securus in May to target retail theft in Shepparton’s shopping district.

Officers made daily patrols after shoplifting rates in the town reached a 10-year high.

Police say the operation led to more than 200 arrests and over 800 charges.

A separate police summary says 130 people were arrested, including a woman from Mooroopna arrested 21 times; the figures are not reconciled.

About 15 per cent of those 130 people were repeat offenders, and the woman was sentenced to 70 days in prison.

Police say they found evidence of organised offending, and nearly $50,000 worth of stolen goods was returned to shops.

A local business group welcomed the operation but said stronger bail laws are needed to curb repeat offending.

Police have said the operation will expand beyond Shepparton’s central business district later this year.