Whiteley shop incident sparks witness appeal

HAMPSHIRE CONSTABULARY have announced they have launched an “urgent” appeal for witnesses and information to assist their continuing investigation after a ‘shoplifting’ incident in Whiteley early last week, which saw an unidentified woman steal multiple items worth approximately £680 from the Holland and Barrett store found in the Shopping Centre.

It is reported that this female entered the shop at 6:30pm on January 22 (Monday), before stealing many products from the shelves before leaving opposite JD Sports. Officers were made aware of this incident and have carried out all initial enquires; which has involved speaking to staff and shoppers in the store as well as viewing the relevant CCTV footage.

Detectives are looking to speak with the woman in this photograph in connection to their investigation who is described as being white, of average build and around 5ft 6ins tall with long black ‘wavy’ hair. She was wearing a white cap, white puffer jacket, black trousers and boots, whilst carrying one light-coloured bag and one black bag with a ‘quilted’ pattern.

Investigators are asking for anybody with information or footage to contact police by calling the non-emergency number 101 and quote the case’s reference number of 44240034124. They can further submit details using the online reporting tool available on the Hampshire Police website, with all official support and further guidance available on the links here.

Alternatively, readers can contact the “independent charity” Crimestoppers 100% anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 for absolutely free; or via their anonymous online forms which can be found through their website: https://orlo.uk/250kR

PICTURED BY HAMPSHIRE CONSTABULARY: Graphic displaying this new ‘witness appeal’ launched by police force.