Businesses in Carlisle have been warned of a reported spike in shoplifting in recent weeks, thought to be driven by the increased anonymity provided by face masks.
Carlisle Crime Reduction Partnership, which works closely with businesses across the city to prevent retail crime, has reported that shoplifting has “noticeably increased” in the past few weeks.
The partnership understands that since it has become mandatory to wear face masks in shops due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the greater anonymity they provide has emboldened shoplifters.
A spokesman for the partnership also said it was understood those who have been given Criminal Behaviour Orders are using masks to try and conceal their identity. This allows them to then enter stores from which they are banned.
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