As we head into the holiday season, the province says it will continue to support the efforts of the Winnipeg Police Service in combating retail theft.
The province announced Thursday, they will add 12 new provincially funded Winnipeg police officers next month in specified areas.
“We’re grateful to the Winnipeg Police Service and their members who have made such a positive impact throughout the summer and fall for businesses and community members,” said Justice Minister Matt Wiebe. “ Over the summer, people in the Exchange District, Osborne Village, the West End and other parts of the city have said they feel safer. We look forward to maintaining that momentum throughout the holiday season.”
Wiebe noted the use of overtime for focused enforcement and crime prevention will continue.
“The impact of the retail theft initiative has been phenomenal, as provincial funding has allowed Winnipeg Police Service to more effectively respond to the safety and security issues retail stores have been facing for too long,” said John Graham, director of government relations (prairie region), Retail Council of Canada. “We are grateful that this support will continue and help support retailers as they head into the very busy and important holiday shopping season.”
Over the summer and fall, the Manitoba government has provided $1.9 million to support an increased police presence in areas identified by the Winnipeg Police Service