A security firm has warned that ‘opportunistic theft’ is now being treated more severely following the Crime and Policing Act 2026 law change, with AI cameras already being rolled out in stores across the UK to catch thieves
Retailers throughout the UK are introducing AI cameras to catch shoplifters following a change in legislation. A UK security company has cautioned that ‘opportunistic theft’ will face tougher penalties come 2026.
AI-powered cameras are now being deployed in shops to monitor stock, capture video proof of stealing and dispatch mobile security notifications when dodgy behaviour is spotted. Kingdom Security, which supplies security staff to numerous high street chains, explained that ‘opportunistic theft’ will receive the harshest crackdown, as the routine ‘pocketing’ of shop goods has become increasingly accepted by many.
From May 2026, more than 100 retailers across the UK have started implementing the new AI technology. The cameras, capable of following merchandise from displays to hidden spots like jackets and handbags, can also notify workers when recognised thieves walk into the shop.
Andrew Cockerill, Account Director at Kingdom Security, said: “This new AI technology will mean ‘one-off opportunistic theft’ will soon no longer be treated as such, with teams able to receive mobile alerts when thieves enter stores.
“The vast majority of theft in stores occurs long before individuals approach the checkout, with ‘opportunity’ consistently ranking as a leading cause. While many see shoplifting as a victimless crime, it’s not. In total, between prevention measures and loss recovery, it adds an estimated £133 onto the average UK household shopping bill each year.”
Andrew cautions ‘opportunistic thieves’ that broader implementation of the technology could result in them being barred from retail outlets following repeated petty theft. “In recent years, the aggressive rise in shoplifting has been met with swift responses from both government and the wider retail sector.
Changes in law under the Crime and Policing Act 2026 mean low-value theft will no longer be treated differently to the theft perpetrated by ‘shoplifting-to-order’ gangs. Ultimately theft is theft, and even ‘one-off opportunistic shoplifting’ could lead to prosecution.”, reports the Mirror.
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 brought in several amendments to shoplifting legislation to safeguard retailers and crack down on theft. Most significantly, the law scrapped the ‘low-value theft’ category, meaning nicking goods worth under £200 is no longer regarded as a minor offence and can face the full force of prosecution.
Retailers and businesses, Andrew explained, can take several steps to shield themselves from opportunistic thieves, including implementing special procedures for high-value merchandise and employing extra security personnel to provide a visible deterrent in-store.
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