Sharp increase in shoplifting offences in Mayo

INCIDENTS of shoplifting have increased in Co. Mayo.

Of the 284 thefts reported to the gardaí to date this year, some 186 relate to shoplifting.

Thefts figures compared to the same period in 2022 are up by 93.

The figures were revealed at a meeting of the Mayo Joint Policing Committee.

A number of people involved in the crimes are currently before the courts.

In an update on crime in the county for the year to date, compared to the same time period last year, Inspector Denis Harrington set out that there have been 24 sexual offences reported - down 10.

General assaults are up by 34 to 166.

There has been one robbery in the county - down from three - while burglaries are up by 11 incidents to 64 reports.

In his update, Superintendent Gabriel Moran of the Mayo south division said there has been significant increases in shoplifting in Castlebar, Westport and Claremorris, but a number of repeat offenders are before the courts.

Deputy Dara Calleary wondered if the gardaí could work with the Chambers of Commerce on how retailers can equip themselves against these crimes.