Warning issued as Christmas shoppers told to be 'on high alert'

Holiday shoppers have been advised to be especially cautious this festive season

Shoppers have been warned(Image: Reach)

Christmas shoppers have been issued a warning to be ‘on high alert’ over the festive season amid concerns over pickpocketing on UK high streets. Kingdom Security, a UK security firm, has urged shoppers to be careful in popular shopping areas this Christmas.

The company, which provides security personnel to retailers and shopping centres across the country, is urging shoppers to stay vigilant as footfall in town centres and Christmas markets increases. According to the Crime Survey in England and Wales, between June 2023 and June 2024, there were an estimated 2.8 million incidents of theft offences.

John Nussbaum, Director of Service (Retail) of Kingdom Security, is encouraging shoppers to be mindful of their belongings and report any suspicious activity. He said: “At Kingdom, we’re advising holiday shoppers to be especially cautious this festive season, as the bustling crowds provide an ideal environment for pickpockets.”

Kingdom Security says it is working closely with retailers to implement preventive measures and boost security in high-risk areas. The company has deployed specialised retail and street patrol security teams trained to identify potential threats in busy areas such as Christmas markets.

John added: “During this season, we ask the public to be our eyes and ears. Increased awareness could be critical in preventing theft and ensuring that more people enjoy the festive period without incident. If you notice anything unusual, please report it immediately to the police or relevant security personnel.”

Kingdom Security’s private enforcement operations proved controversial when they operated in Merseyside. Fixed penalty notices dished out by the private litter squad generated a staggering £1.3m in their first year patrolling the city’s streets.

The private enforcement company launched its partnership with Liverpool City Council in March 2017 – as the cash-strapped authority attempted to find a new way to clean up the streets. But the 12 months following the launch saw a steady stream of complaints regarding the conduct and behaviour of some of Kingdom’s officers in Liverpool.

But after 20 months spent patrolling the city, the controversial litter squad were binned off by then-Mayor Joe Anderson in December 2018.