Thieves hit Chadstone Shopping Centre customers on Boxing Day

CUNNING thieves have hit shoppers at Chadstone with reports of at least half a dozen thefts during the Boxing Day sales.

Shoppers do some last-minute buying before Christmas at Chadstone Shopping Centre. Picture: Ian Currie

OPPORTUNISTIC thieves have hit bargain hunters at Chadstone Shopping Centre with reports of at least half a dozen thefts during the Boxing Day sales.

In a post on the centre’s Facebook page, shopper Melissa Li revealed her purse was stolen in the food court early yesterday.

Ms Li claimed at least seven other thefts had been reported to the centre’s security team in a few hours.

“When me and my friend went to report it (the theft) at the security, there were already 7 other theft cases by 12pm (Definitely more cases after),” Ms Li wrote.

“Another lady I spoke to also had her purse taken out from her handbag.”

“Chadstone security acted fast and took down my details.
“They dispatched more security guarding the entrance and major stores only a few hours after the incident.”

Ms Li said security officers later contacted her saying they had found her purse, minus the cash.

She thanked officers for their help but called on Chadstone management to do more to help warn shoppers about potential theft.

Chadstone Shopping Centre was busy with laet-night shoppers in the lead-up to Christmas. Picture: Andrew Tauber

“With these cases happening, I suggest that Chadstone can do better next time by dispatching more security early, put signs to warn and remind people to be extra careful with their items or even make announcement on the PA system to remind people.”

The centre attracted more than 180,000 shoppers yesterday, up five per cent on last year’s crowds.

Chadstone Shopping Centre general manager Fiona Mackenzie confirmed there were “a few alleged incidents of personal theft” reported yesterday, including that of a customer’s wallet.
Ms McKenzie said the thefts were reported immediately to police and the centre was helping with investigations.

She said a dedicated police team had been working at Chadstone for the past week during the busy trading period.

“The safety and security of our customers, retailers, our team and the community is of utmost importance to us and we encourage everyone to take care and be mindful of their personal belongings especially during busy periods,” Ms McKenzie said.
Victoria Police Leading Senior Constable Kendra Jackson referred Leader’s inquiry to the Crime Statistics Agency.

“Unfortunately we are unable to accurately obtain those statistics,” she said.