Fall Retail Theft Initiative results in more than 120 arrests

Released: October 15, 2026 at 9:12 a.m.

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The Winnipeg Police Service has concluded its Fall Retail Theft Initiative, a proactive enforcement project aimed at reducing retail crime and enhancing public safety at shopping centers and commercial businesses throughout Winnipeg.

The initiative was led in partnership with the Property Crime Unit, Community Support Units, and the Rapid Response Team. Officers conducted proactive enforcement and crime suppression activities at more than 30 retail businesses and commercial locations across the city, resulting in:

  • 123 offenders arrested
  • More than 243 criminal charges
  • Recovery of approximately $21,830 in stolen merchandise
  • 15 repeat offenders known to the Property Crime Unit arrested
  • 33 offenders detained in custody

Outside of the initiative, officers continued to respond to retail theft incidents throughout the city, resulting in:

  • 81 arrests
  • 134 criminal charges
  • Recovery of approximately $13,138 in stolen merchandise
  • Arrest of eight repeat offenders
  • Detained 33 offenders in custody

The Winnipeg Police Service recognizes the significant impact retail crime has on businesses, employees, and consumers. Through proactive enforcement, partnerships with retailers, and targeted investigations, officers continue to identify and arrest repeat offenders while working to create safer shopping environments for everyone.

Public safety remains the top priority of the Winnipeg Police Service. Further crime prevention and safety information can be found on the Winnipeg Police Service website.

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