By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
Melbourne Supermarket Workers Resist Suspected Thieves Amid Rising Theft Concerns
In Melbourne, frustrated supermarket workers have been recorded fighting back against suspected thieves. The shop owners emphasize that they do not want their staff to risk their safety, but they assert that police efforts are insufficient to address the increasing number of thefts.
Charie Galizia witnessed a colleague grappling with a suspected cigarette thief and reacted by throwing a roll of paper towels to help. Galizia expressed her frustration, saying, "You get very angry and upset. Why do these people do this?"
This incident is not an isolated one; employees at East Melbourne IGA have repeatedly confronted individuals they suspect of shoplifting. Sam Bedi, who owns nine IGA stores in Melbourne, reports that theft, especially of alcohol, is costing his business nearly half a million dollars annually. "They confront them. But it's not their job. It's the police's job," Bedi remarked. "They get a slap on the wrist and they keep coming back."
The increasing abuse and violence towards retail staff have raised concerns within the union. Michael Donovan of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association highlighted the risks, stating, "We've had instances where members have been knifed in those sorts of circumstances. We can't afford to put retail worker's lives at risk."
Legislation for tougher penalties against offenders is not expected to be introduced until next year. Meanwhile, the owners of the East Melbourne IGA are contemplating installing locked cages around the liquor and cigarette sections to prevent self service by customers, although this security measure will entail significant costs. Fleur Brown of the Australian Retailers Association noted that while larger retailers can afford such measures, the costs will inevitably be passed on to customers.