SHOPLIFTING in Suffolk has risen by 33% in four years and is still on the increase, police figures have revealed.

In 2007/08 pilfering from stores around the county led to 3,034 offences being recorded by Suffolk Constabulary.

By 2010/11 the number had increased steadily year-by-year to 4,049 – an average of 337 offences per month.

The trend over the first seven months of 2011/12 has continued upwards with the total shoplifting offences recorded at 2,508 – an average of 358 per month.

As the current economic downturn began to bite a couple of years ago the county’s chief constable Simon Ash said he was aware of the possibility of acquisitive crimes rising based on previous recessions.

Earlier this year Ipswich police highlighted the black market as the main reason for a large rise in shoplifting in the town.

By early July there had been more than 250 thefts in Ipswich involving food since January 1, equating to 28% of all shoplifting.

Meat, cheese and coffee topped the items being pilfered from stores.

Police said they are concerned about the rise in shoplifting but are taking action to address the situation.

Superintendent Martin Ransome, of Suffolk Constabulary, said: “So far this year Suffolk has solved 64% of shoplifting offences and we continue to proactively work with town centre shops and CCTV throughout the county to reduce the number of shoplifting offences.

“Last month saw an operation in Ipswich town centre involving high-visibility and covert patrols in a bid to disrupt shoplifters.

“In the lead-up to Christmas we will be working hard to prevent shoplifting through an increased police presence in town centres and will target persistent offenders who chose not to change their criminal behaviour.

“Work like this sends out a clear message that we take this matter seriously and anyone caught shoplifting will be dealt with robustly and with all the powers available to us.

“The long-term increase in shoplifting offences seen within Suffolk is a concern but it is an issue that has been identified and we are working to find a solution.”

Shoplifting offences recorded by year:

07/08 - 3,034

08/09 - 3,226

09/10 - 3,505

10/11 - 4,049

11/12 - 2,508 (up to the end of October)