Nine people have been arrested on suspicion of theft and money laundering in Salisbury.
It follows reports on Friday morning (3rd November) that a lot of items were being loaded into a van having been removed from an address in Fisherton Street Salisbury, and concerns for welfare after a woman was seen getting into the back of the vehicle.
The address was searched, and four people were found inside the property along with a large number of suspected stolen items mostly consisting of clothes.
The van was later stopped in Worcester, and when it was established that the woman was safe and well, all three in the vehicle were arrested.
Three people have been arrested on suspicion of theft, and six people were arrested on suspicion of theft and money laundering.
All nine have been released on bail pending further enquiries.
PC Daniel Catterick said: “We’re acutely aware that shoplifting is a continuous problem for many businesses in the city, especially in the months leading up to the Christmas season.
“We will continue to have a robust response in relation to any reports received from partner agencies, businesses and members of the public.
“Reporting this kind of behaviour will allow us to bring serial offenders before the courts. I would urge anyone who witnesses this kind of behaviour to report it to Wiltshire Police.”
If you see anything suspicious let Wiltshire Police know by reporting online Report a crime | Wiltshire Police, calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.