A teenage gang has been caught red-handed after swiping mobile phones from a Currys store in Worthing. Sussex police warn this is just the tip of the iceberg in a recent surge of organised shop thefts targeting the county.
Five Teens Nabbed in Rapid Police Sting
The crackdown happened around 7pm on Sunday, October 6, at the Currys branch on Lyons Farm. Cops quickly stopped a suspicious black Renault believed linked to the thieves.
- Five males from Portsmouth were arrested – one 19-year-old man and four boys aged 14 to 15.
- The youngsters now face shop theft charges and will appear at Worthing Youth Court on November 4.
- The 19-year-old was released on conditional bail as investigations continue.
Police Urge Public to Help – But Warn Against Sharing Unverified Videos
Inspector Christopher Bryant of Sussex Police called on the community to share any CCTV or dashcam footage connected to the thefts. But he cautioned:
“Don’t post unverified videos online – it could jeopardise the case.”
He added, “This kind of theft hits local businesses hard. We’re determined to hold those responsible to account.”
Sussex Flooded with Organised Phone Theft Rings
This Worthing bust comes amid a string of high-profile phone heists across Sussex:
- Earlier this year, two men received jail after drilling into a Three store in Worthing, stealing £36,000 of phones and equipment.
- Recently, four men were sentenced in Hastings for threatening staff and forcing open a phone shop safe.
Police believe organised gangs hit multiple towns, targeting electronics shops before vanishing.
Businesses Fight Back with Security Upgrades
Shops have boosted security with locked-door entries and extra guards. But smaller retailers are grappling with soaring insurance premiums and stressed staff facing potential violence.
Sussex Police are working closely with local shopwatch groups to share intel and crack down on repeat offenders. Yet the temptation of “quick cash” is drawing more young people into crime.
Swift Arrests Show Police Success, But Problems Grow
The Worthing arrests prove rapid police action pays off when the public and businesses work together. But the surge in retail theft, especially expensive electronics, is a growing headache.
Officers urge shoppers and staff to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour around retail parks and high streets.
The four teens face youth court next month as police dig deeper into the gang’s activities.
