LCBO tells customers not to ‘physically confront’ shoplifters after video shows alleged theft

The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) is telling customers to side with caution when it comes to shoplifting at stores.

Customers should “not to physically confront shoplifters,” an LCBO spokesperson said, according to a Now report.

This comes after a video of an apparent shoplifting incident was posted online. In the video posted on X, two suspects were shown allegedly stealing several bottles from the store, while a customer intervenes to stop them.

“Several brazenly try to steal liquor from an LCBO in Ontario, Canada and are confronted by one European Canadian who has had enough,” wrote X user @eclipsethis2003 along with the video.

No injuries were reported in relation to the incident, LCBO told Now.

“We are working collaboratively with law enforcement to hold those responsible accountable,” the LCBO spokesperson said, according to the report.

Theft is on the rise: RCC

Theft is on the rise across the retail industry, the spokesperson noted: “Any theft is a concern, especially if it is brazen or a threat to safety.”

Retailers report that incidents of retail theft that involve some form of violence have increased 300% over the past four years, the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) said back in December.

LCBO also noted that employees “receive regular and mandatory training in theft detection, deterrence and reporting” and that the training “focuses on personal safety, observation, and gathering information to support police investigations.”

Last year, the California State Senate passed legislation that prevents employers from requiring workers to confront shoplifters.

How can grocery stores prevent theft?

Here’s how employers can prevent shoplifting and theft in retail stores, according to Jona Tarlengco, researcher at SafetyCulture:

1. Prepare a retail theft prevention plan.
2. Train staff on anti-theft techniques.
3. Consistently update retail inventory.
4. Optimize the interior layout of the shop.
5. Maintain an organized retail establishment.