Police in Sydney’s North Shore have charged 10 people during a three-day blitz over the weekend targeting retail crime as part of Operation Percentile.
Operation Percentile aims to detect, disrupt and deter retail crime offenders, with the objective of preventing stock loss, protecting customers and retail workers, and deterring anti-social behaviour.
The operation was conducted at retail precincts, including major shopping centres, in Sydney’s North Shore area from Thursday 17 September to Saturday 19 September, in conjunction with retail outlets and loss prevention staff, to target criminal offences, mainly shoplifting.
Officers attached to North Shore Police Area Command were assisted by officers attached to Northern Sydney Sector Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Hornsby Police Transport Command, Youth Command, Gordon Region Enforcement Squad and North West Metropolitan Operation Kella.
Ten people were charged with 20 offences, and a further 16 people were issued with Criminal Infringement Notices.
A further 16 youth cautions were also issued, as well as 64 business inspections and 25 move on directions.
Crime Prevention Command Superintendent Phil Hallinan said the three-day surge reflected the NSW Police Force’s commitment to tackling retail crime, as part of the Retail Crime Strategy announced in October 2025.
“Operation Percentile continues to disrupt and target retail offenders, while preventing stock loss and supporting businesses,” Supt Hallinan said.
“Police continue to work with the retail sector and encourage the reporting of all retail crime.
“The growing number of offenders being identified and charged demonstrates that the current policing strategy is effective and that retailers are increasingly engaging with law enforcement to report incidents.”
