Have you noticed more police around when you pop down to Albany to shop?

If not, that extra presence may not be far away.

A new North Shore police Beat Team is cracking down on shoplifters in Takapuna, Glenfield and Albany, and that matters for Hibiscus Coast locals who rely on those centres.

Just over a month since their rollout, the team’s visible presence has been warmly received by businesses and residents.

“Officers are regularly approached by members of the public thanking them for their work and commenting on how great it is to see more of us,” says Beat Team Sergeant Shane Bainbridge.

Retail crime is a key focus and officers have moved quickly.

North Shore Beat Team. Photo: Supplied

In Takapuna, the team found a recently released prisoner with stolen goods who is now facing multiple shoplifting charges.

At Glenfield Mall, officers intercepted a man stealing boxes of beer after he had already offended earlier in the day and returned within hours of bail.

One would-be shoplifter even tried to steal items right in front of officers and was promptly arrested and charged.

In a more serious incident at Glenfield Mall, two women were caught shoplifting and violently assaulted security staff and a member of the public who stepped in.

They were quickly tracked down nearby and are now facing aggravated assault charges.

For Hibiscus Coast shoppers heading to these centres over summer, more officers on foot should help busier malls feel safer.

Many locals will be hoping to see a Beat Team in Orewa, Silverdale and Whangaparaoa soon too.

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