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Experts suggest that the surge in retail crime is largely attributed to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the activities of organised crime groups. Law enforcement reports indicate that repeat offenders are increasingly targeting items like alcohol for resale on the black market. Others are stealing essentials such as groceries and clothing for personal use.
In Frankston, the statistics are alarming, with nearly 650 incidents of retail theft recorded last year, marking a significant increase from the figures reported in 2023, more than doubling the previous count. This trend highlights the pressing issue of theft in retail environments, reflecting broader socio-economic challenges.