SaBA Week 2025 results in 1,000-plus arrests for retail crime

With updates from 32 forces in England and Wales plus the British Transport Police, it has been possible to collect a range of successful data, with over 160 days of activity, 1,400 events, 4,200 police officers and staff deployed and just under 7,000 businesses and partners engaged with during the initiative.

Thames Valley Police reported 193 arrests, representing a significant proportion of the national total and a clear sign of the force’s proactive stance against retail crime. The force also recorded 433 retail engagements throughout the week and 281 SaBA events, bringing its total of dedicated retail engagements to 714.

Greater Manchester Police visited 1,141 stores, offering reassurance, crime prevention advice and support to staff and made 99 arrests as part of its own proactive operation. Kent Police made 94 arrests and visited upwards of 400 retail outlets throughout the week.

Strong operational outcomes 

NBCC lead Superintendent Lisa Maslen commented: “This year’s results show not only strong operational outcomes, but also a clear commitment to supporting retailers, protecting staff and reassuring the public. As more police forces report their activity, the picture of SaBA Week 2025 continues to grow, but one thing is already clear. This latest co-ordinated effort has delivered meaningful results, strengthened partnerships and set a new standard for tackling business crime across the UK.”

Maslen continued: “The week wasn’t just about policing. It was also a partnership week of action involving Business Improvement Districts, Business Crime Reduction Partnerships and private security operations all working together to tackle crimes impacting businesses in their communities. Thank you to everyone involved for their commitment and support.”

SaBA Week 2025 showcased the very best of this model, duly encompassing high-visibility patrols with officers targeting high-footfall retail areas, transport hubs and known ‘hotspots’, providing a visible deterrent to would-be offenders.

Retailers and police officers shared intelligence on prolific offenders, crime trends and local threats, allowing teams to respond quickly and effectively. Forces focused on organised retail crime groups, violence against shop workers and repeat shoplifters, leading to hundreds of arrests being made nationwide.

Vital front line role 

From practical crime prevention advice through to reassurance and welfare checks, the week of action emphasised the vital role of front line retail workers and the need to protect them.

Police engagement with both staff and members of the public helped to reinforce safer shopping environments and stronger community relationships.

SaBA Week is more than a five-day operation. It’s a national commitment to supporting businesses, reducing harm and ensuring retail spaces remain welcoming and safe. The scale of engagement and enforcement seen in 2025 demonstrates an ongoing dedication across police forces to combat business crime in all its forms.