Police have issued a warning to retailers in the run-up to Christmas after a man attempted to steal boxes of Lego from a South Belfast shop.
The incident took place shortly after 3.30pm on Wednesday, October 25, when a man entered a shop in the Bradford Court area and tried to steal three boxes of Lego.
Staff at the premises were able to stop the man and recover the items before he fled on foot in the direction of the carriageway nearby.
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He has been described as being in his late 30’s, wearing a green jumper and a baseball cap with facial hair.
Police say they are seeing increased reports of Lego being stolen from shops and believe thieves may be targeting them in order to sell the items online.
Sergeant McManus said: “Police received a report shortly before 3.30pm last Wednesday, that a man described as being in his late 30’s, wearing a green jumper and a baseball cap with facial hair, had entered a retail store and lifted three boxes of Lego, attempting to leave without making payment.
“Staff inside became aware of the man’s attempt to walk out and were able to stop him and recover the items, before he made off on foot in the direction of the carriageway nearby.
“At this time, I am encouraging businesses to be on their guard in the run up to Christmas, following increased reports of Lego being stolen from retail stores.
“Investing in these pieces may not necessarily be new, but with Lego being targeted by thieves, it is evident that demand within the game market has increased, and it’s very likely that these items are being stolen to be sold online, due to the huge resale value of some of the sets.
“Shop theft is a very serious crime and can really impact the businesses involved, so I would ask the public to raise any suspicious activity they become aware of to staff members, or contact police with a description of the offender(s) involved.
“If you have any information regarding the above, please contact police on 101 and quote 1071 25/10/23. Alternatively, you can make a report online at www.psni.police.uk/report or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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