Shoplifting

The police lacks resources to effectively deal with retail crime, according to the founder of a private investigation company operating in London.

Mr. Philp, speaking at a fringe event at the Tory party conference, encouraged people to carry out citizen's arrests of shoplifters.

It comes amid a surge in retail crime across the country, with staff often facing violence and abuse by perpetrators.

"It has gotten so bad that a number of Walgreens, Walmart, and other stores have ceased operation in the very high crime areas."