Concern raised over theft

SHOPLIFTING is becoming common even though owners are spending a lot of money hiring security firms to protect their products, a magistrate says.
“As a result, shops are losing money through loss of goods.”
“The court has a responsibility to uphold the law and support police in their work in apprehending those who commit such offences.”
Lae District Court magistrate Pious Tapil ordered Jim Peter, 24, to pay a fine of K600 or go to jail for six months.
Peter was found guilty of stealing two 340grams cans of Ox & Palm beef worth about K34.
Police investigation reports provided in court by police prosecutor Const Mathias Terau indicated that Peter on Nov 7 was under the influence of alcohol when he committed the offence.