ARRESTS for shoplifting in Blackburn town centre have risen by 20 per cent since a new radio link scheme began operating alongside security cameras.

Police have revealed that 124 people were detained on suspicion of stealing from shops between July 1 and September 30 this year, compared to 104 during the same period last year.

And organisers of the scheme are convinced it is helping them win the battle against crime by helping to bring more offences to light.

The initiative allows shop staff around town to communicate with each other, as well as the police station and shopping centre security staff. They can highlight suspicious activity and suspected thieves, allowing CCTV cameras to home-in on suspects and record what they do.

The scheme began in 10 shops in July, but it has been so successful that organisers are hoping to have 50 members by Christmas.

Sgt Alan Holt, of Blackburn Police, said: "We are making an impact on shoplifting as a result of the introduction of radio link, combined with CCTV and the enthusiasm of the stores that are taking part.

"We are sending out a message to criminals that they will get caught if they come into Blackburn to commit crime."

Sgt Holt said the increased number of arrests highlighted the amount of shoplifting which previously went undetected, with stores' true losses only being revealed during quarterly or half-yearly stocktakes.

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