A targeted police action against shoplifting on Brussels' busiest shopping street in the city centre, Rue Neuve, has resulted in 21 arrests and thousands of euros in stolen goods being returned.
A record number of shoplifting incidents were reported to the police in 2023, figures from the Federal Police showed. More than 24,000 such crimes were recorded, although this is likely a considerable underestimation as only around 11% of thefts are reported. Supermarkets are among the worst affected, as food has consistently been the most-stolen product type.
However, high-street retailers are also often victims of shoplifting. A series of thefts on Brussels' Rue Neuve, where major retailers such as H&M, Zara, Levi's and INNO department store welcome hundreds of shoppers every week, spurred the police to launch the so-called 'Guess operations'.
Over €12,300 worth of stolen goods
"In July, seven different actions took place, leading to the arrests of 18 shoplifters," the City of Brussels/Ixelles police zone said. "Similar actions also took place on 6 and 14 August." During the actions held this month, three more shoplifters were caught on the busy shopping street, bringing the total tally to 21 arrests made during the operation.
"The thieves tried to make off with branded clothes, but did not realise they were being watched by people from the Tracking Brigade, specialised in detecting and preventing pickpockets," the police noted. Just over €12,300 worth of stolen goods could be returned to the traders as a result of the operation. They will all be summoned before the correctional court.
The 'Guess operation' ended on 14 August. However, the police zone stressed that shoplifting "still remains a focus", more particularly for the specialised brigade, who will continue to frequently patrol shops in the area.
