59% shoplifting surge in Illawarra, NSW, averages four daily thefts, harming small businesses.
Shoplifting in Illawarra, New South Wales, has surged by 59% over the past decade, with 1,504 incidents reported in the last year—averaging four thefts daily. This rise is particularly impacting small businesses, which face increased insurance costs and must cut staff and hours. Contributing factors include the rising cost of living and enhanced detection technology. Local police are committed to addressing the issue but business owners call for more action.
September 29, 2024
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