Policing operation working with businesses to tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour in Rochdale Town Centre

Tuesday, 29 April 2025 18:02

By David Murphy

A new policing initiative, Operation Tetbury, has been launched to tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour in Rochdale town centre.

Led by Inspector Meena Yasin, the operation sees local neighbourhood officers working closely with Rochdale Council and the local business community to create a safer environment for shop workers and customers alike. Both plain clothed and uniformed patrols have been increased, alongside building resilient links with businesses to encourage greater reporting of crimes.

Civil powers such as Community Protection Warnings and Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) are being used to ban repeat offenders from returning to specific shops or the town centre. Any breaches of these orders could result in arrest.

Inspector Yasin said: “We understand the frustrations that businesses have when it comes to shoplifters and just how much it impacts their livelihoods, and I want to reassure those affected that we stand firmly alongside them. Whether you work in a large multinational store or a local shop; we are here for you."

She added that working with local businesses had helped capture the impact of shoplifting and crimes against retail workers, leading to the securing of CBOs. “This has been an effective tool to prevent further crime,” she said.

Inspector Yasin urged businesses to report offences, stating that local officers can offer bespoke crime prevention advice.

The operation aims to ensure crime stays out of the town centre, helping both businesses and employees feel safer while shopping and working.