Nerang Police and loss prevention officers conducted an operation at a local supermarket after a sudden increase in shop stealing offences was identified.
As a result of this operation a total of 7 people were charged.
Senior Sergeant Peter Gordon of Nerang Police said that the number of juvenile offenders was of particular concern to police.
A 12-year-old girl, two 13-year-old girls and a 16-year-old boy were all apprehended for allegedly stealing shop goods during the operation. Each juvenile has been cautioned in relation to these offences.
Additionally, a 28-year-old Nerang woman will be required to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on August 31 charged with unlawfully taking away foodstuffs from the store.
A 28-year-old Molendinar woman will also be facing the Southport Magistrates Court on the September 8 charged with unlawfully taking away clothing items from the store.
A 44-year-old Nerang man is due to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court charged with one count each of driving a motor vehicle whilst unlicensed and possession of a dangerous drug.
Police will allege that the items of property stolen from the store included predominantly items of little value including energy drinks, foodstuffs and clothing items.
Senior Sergeant Gordon said that people involved in this type of illegal activity have a detrimental impact on not only the store owner through a direct loss of income but also to themselves by potentially affecting future job prospects or overseas travel opportunities.
“Given the number of offenders located during this operation it is likely that further operations will be conducted.” Senior Sergeant Gordon said.
Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.
Crime Stoppers is a registered charity and community volunteer organisation working in partnership with the Queensland Police Service.
For all non-urgent police reporting or general police inquiries contact Policelink on 131 444 or Policelink.qld.gov.au 24hrs a day.