Between August 21, 2025, and August 23, 2025, the Winnipeg Police Service’s East District Community Support Unit, with the assistance of the Property Crime Unit, and East District General Patrol officers, conducted a retail theft suppression project in the Transcona and St. Boniface communities. Officers conducted this proactive effort to address the serious issue of shoplifting, including the threat of injury to staff and the general public, as well as the financial loss incurred by various retail outlets. This project lead to the arrest of 20 individuals over a three-day period.
On August 21, 2025, officers attended to retail businesses located in the Transcona area. Throughout the evening, a total of four arrests were made for a number of charges including Robbery, Theft Under $5,000, and Possession of Break In Instruments. All four individuals were detained in custody.
On August 22, 2025, officers returned to the retail businesses located in the Transcona area. Nine arrests were made for Robbery, Theft Under $5,000, and various warrants. Four individuals were detained in custody, two were released on Undertakings and three were diverted through Restorative Justice.
On August 23, 2025, officers attended to retail businesses located in the St. Boniface area. Seven arrests were made for Theft Under $5,000 and Possession of a Weapon. One individual was detained in custody, two were released on Undertakings and four were diverted through Restorative Justice.
The success of retail theft prevention is dependent on effective collaboration between various stakeholders and a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of theft. The aim is to raise awareness, deter potential offenders, and promote a safe and secure shopping environment.