Operation Hornet - over 60 arrests in shoplifting crackdown

More than 60 arrests were made during an operation to tackle shoplifting in Welwyn Hatfield.

More than 60 arrests were made during an operation to tackle shoplifting in Welwyn Hatfield.

Operation Hornet was launched during the 2025 festive period to target shoplifters in Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield town centres.

It was met with huge success and the operation was extended into the new year, finishing in March.

The intelligence-led operation deployed plain‑clothes officers and it ran parallel to the Winter of Action campaign which provided an increased visible presence in town centres across the county.

The results were:

• 64 arrests
• 158 offences charged
• Value of charged offences exceeding £41,000
• 32 Community Resolutions issued
• 29 ASB powers used
• Six people jailed, with many more still going through the court process.

A further 13 postal requisitions are also underway. These are formal documents sent by a Court notifying that the individual must attend court to face criminal charges.

Welwyn Hatfield Chief Inspector Pete Frost said: “We’re really pleased with the results of this operation and hope the local business community feel reassured that we are committed to tackling shoplifting.

“A key feature of Operation Hornet has been the development of strong, collaborative relationships with retailers. Close liaison with store managers and security teams has facilitated not only the positive resolution of incidents but has also enabled a more holistic approach to reducing offending. This has been achieved through arrests, charges, prison and other sentences, as well as use of Community Resolutions and rehabilitative courses where deemed appropriate for the level of offending. I’d like to thank the local businesses for their support in this operation.

“Our commitment to tackling shoplifting absolutely continues. Retail crime is a priority for us all year round, and officers will maintain both visible patrols and targeted activity in key areas.

“We’ll keep working closely with shops, security teams and partners to identify offenders quickly and take action. We encourage businesses to continue reporting incidents so we can respond effectively and keep our town centres safe.”

You can report information online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form (opens in a new window).

In an emergency or if you suspect a crime is ongoing, always call 999.

Advice on keeping your business secure can be found on the Herts Police website here.