Customers have punched me and spat at me

A Belfast retail manager has emphasized that having more police officers on the streets is essential, not optional. The Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) recently introduced Operation Season's Greetings, an annual initiative aimed at enhancing safety for both the public and workers during the holiday season.

The operation involves deploying additional officers across towns and cities throughout Northern Ireland to ensure public safety during the busy festive period.

Retailers Speak Out on Safety Concerns

Deon Stephens, a retail veteran with 15 years of experience in Belfast, highlighted that threats to staff are constant. He recounted incidents where he had been physically attacked and verbally abused by customers.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson stated that officers will be highly visible in shopping districts and nightlife areas to prevent theft and anti-social behavior, as well as to assist people in reaching home safely. The initiative aligns with Project Vigilant, which focuses on combating violence against women and girls.

Shortage of Police in City Centre

Stephens pointed out the lack of visible police presence in the city centre. He noted that shoplifting remains a recurring issue at his clothing store, and said retailers cannot ignore theft due to insufficient policing. "When an item is stolen, you must intervene and recover your merchandise," he explained.

Olivia Burns, who recently opened a candle and diffuser shop in Belfast, shared similar concerns about staff safety. While she has not experienced shoplifting personally, she noted issues related to homelessness, substance use, and general security. Burns welcomes more officers during the busy Christmas season for peace of mind while managing and closing her store.

Impact of Shoplifting on Businesses

Conor Brown, manager of a local chemist, reported an increase in theft during the festive period. Recently, two gift sets were stolen but recovered by police, though the goods were damaged. Brown emphasized that the mere presence of officers can serve as a deterrent to potential thieves.

Glyn Roberts from Retail NI remarked that retail staff endure rising levels of physical and verbal abuse, especially during the holiday season. "Shoplifting is far from a victimless crime, particularly for small retailers with tight margins," he said, highlighting the real economic and personal impact on employees and businesses alike.

Commentary: The Need for Increased Police Presence During the Holiday Season

The call for more police officers in Belfast's retail areas is not just an isolated concern; it's a matter of public safety and business security that affects both workers and customers. As Northern Ireland enters the busy holiday season, Operation Season's Greetings serves as a reminder that proactive measures are essential to keep people safe. While this initiative aims to address the escalating threats faced by retail staff, it raises important questions about the adequacy of current police resources.

Deon Stephens, a veteran retail manager, shares firsthand experience of the physical and verbal abuse that employees regularly endure. His call for heightened police presence reflects the persistent safety risks in commercial areas. The annual surge in shopping activity should not exacerbate these dangers; instead, it should signal the need for heightened vigilance and proactive policing.

The initiative’s alignment with Project Vigilant, focusing on the protection of women and girls, is a positive step, but it shouldn't overshadow the broader safety concerns affecting both retail workers and the public. While the introduction of extra officers in high-traffic areas is a welcome move, the real test lies in ensuring that this visible presence translates into tangible results, especially when tackling crimes such as shoplifting, which continue to plague businesses.

As retail businesses battle against the combined challenges of theft, abuse, and dwindling resources, a commitment to more consistent and visible policing remains critical. Only with such measures can the police restore confidence in the safety of workers, customers, and the community at large.

Sources:

• 'I've been punched and spat at by customers'