POLICE have recorded nearly 70 cases of shoplifting in Bute and Cowal in the space of four months, a report has revealed.
Officers have also reiterated their commitment to tackling acquisitive crime in the area after incidents of housebreaking or attempted housebreaking were also reported.
An update on motoring offences in the area is also set to be given to councillors and community figures at a meeting in Dunoon next week.
Argyll and Bute Council’s Bute and Cowal community planning group will meet at the Queens Hall on Tuesday, August 11. Remote attendance is also possible.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “As we progress through the spring and summer months, acquisitive crime remains a key focus for our community. With longer days and improved visibility, we encourage residents to remain vigilant and continue practicing crime prevention measures.
“Our dedicated prevention team is actively working to raise awareness and empower individuals to safeguard their property and belongings. Simple adjustments to daily routines can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of opportunistic crimes.
“Our commitment to combating fraud remains strong, with ongoing collaboration with Trading Standards and the installation of call-blockers on landlines to protect against automated fraudulent calls. We’re also delivering targeted educational sessions and leveraging social media to keep the community informed and equipped to tackle scams.
“Between April 1 and July 31, we have recorded 69 reported cases of shoplifting locally, of which 42 have been successfully detected. Additionally, there have been seven reported incidents of housebreaking or attempted housebreaking involving domestic dwellings, alongside five non-dwelling incidents.
“While our team continues to actively investigate open enquiries, we remain focused on maintaining safety, security, and community well-being across the area.
“Digital evidence sharing capability, which revolutionises the way we collect and process digital evidence throughout the criminal justice system, is now live in Argyll. Digital Evidence Sharing Capability (DESC) is a programme designed to deliver an end-to-end service which will collect, manage, and share digital evidence throughout the criminal justice process.
“DESC will allow members of the public/businesses to submit digital evidence online (via portal) quickly and easily.”
The report added: “Speeding and driving complaints remain prevalent within the area. We continue to support community concerns in this area through direct action, prevention, and intervention work.
“Proactive speed checks have been carried out across the area and between April 1 and July 28, we have detected 50 speeding offences across our local communities. These drivers have been issued with fines or reported to the COPFS (Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service).
“During the same period six drivers have been charged with dangerous driving and a further 30 drivers charged with driving without due care or attention. We have also detected 11 drivers who were unfit to drive through drink or drugs and have been reported to the COPFS.”
