Operation Bingo cracks down on shoplifting in Geelong during Christmas

A man was arrested in Myer after allegedly stealing children’s toys and high-end men’s cologne from stores in Geelong on Thursday.

A man was arrested after allegedly stealing children’s toys and high-end cologne from stores in Geelong on Thursday as police crack down on shoplifting.

Officers swarmed Westfield Geelong as part of Operation Bingo, a three-day sting targeting shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in the city.

The man was arrested in Myer about 3pm after allegedly stealing $800 worth of men’s cologne from the department store, as well as children’s toys from various shops in Westfield and Market Square.

Police carrying items alleged to have been shoplifted. Picture: Alan Barber

It is believed the man was not local to the Geelong area.

Officers escorted the man through Myer in handcuffs to a waiting police car on Malop St before he was taken to the Geelong police station.

Officers confiscated an allegedly stolen backpack, a filled canvas tote bag and a Roblox, an online game, box as well as a Myer bag.

Thefts from Westfield Geelong have increased “significantly” within the past 12 months, according to police.

Acting Sergeant Adam Barnes, who initiated the operation, said the spike was likely due to high interest rates, rising cost of living and the impact of Covid, as stores were closed during the pandemic.

“Only 37 per cent of thefts are actually reported to police,” he said.

He said police hoped the would encourage store owners and employees to report shoplifting.

“All we need is an image and they will more than likely be identified and prosecuted … with restitution and a conviction,” Sergeant Barnes said.

Acting Sergeant Adam Barnes, centre. Picture: Alan Barber

Sergeant Barnes said the multi-agency operation included police, loss prevention officers (LOPs) and security guards from Westfield and Market Square.

“We want to educate the offenders to think twice before stealing,” he said.

“Even though they may think they have got away with the theft, they will more than likely be captured on CCTV instore, in Westfield or from our large network of community street CCTV systems.

“It’s best to pay for the item and save yourself from always looking over your shoulder, waiting for the tap by police.”

The operation continued on Friday and Saturday.

Originally published as Operation Bingo cracks down on shoplifting in Geelong during Christmas