A Romford security team will soon appear on screens across the country as part of a new Channel 5 documentary exploring how towns are tackling a growing shoplifting crisis.

Filming took place on March 7 for the show, currently under the working title “Hunting the Shoplifters”, which is being produced by Raw Cut Television, part of the Zinc Media Group. The documentary is expected to air in early May, and will shine a spotlight on retail crime prevention efforts in Romford and beyond.

In Romford, the documentary follows the work of Chris Levy and Khan Hunter, part of the town’s My Local Bobby security team, who patrol the area addressing shoplifting and antisocial behaviour. Their day-to-day work was captured on film, including a real-time incident at B&M, which saw cameras capturing the team spring into action.

Behind-the-Scenes Look at Crime Prevention

Julie Frost, Director of the Romford Business Improvement District (BID), said she was contacted by Raw Cut about showcasing Romford’s proactive approach to retail security.

“They spent the day with us to chat to me, chat to a few other businesses, and then went out with Chris and Khan—basically just following what they did,” Ms Frost said.
“Straight away, we got outside and there was an issue at B&M, so they went and sorted that out—you see the cameraman running along chasing the bobbies!”

Footage was also captured outside Asda Express on South Street, with Chris Levy filmed engaging with the public during his patrol.

Police and BID Partnership in the Spotlight

The Havering Police also contributed to the documentary, providing CCTV footage, bodycam footage, and arranging an interview with one of their sergeants, helping to highlight the broader collaborative effort to tackle retail crime.

Ms Frost added:

“Romford often gets a bad name for crime, but so much is being done that people don’t know is happening. We’re proud of our partnerships and wanted to showcase this in the documentary.”

Romford BID has worked with My Local Bobby since signing a contract in August 2023, with the security service collaborating with local businesses and Havering Council to identify prolific offenders, often operating undercover.

A National Issue

The documentary will place Romford’s efforts in a wider national context, as retail crime continues to rise across the UK. The show aims to highlight innovative solutions and the unsung work of community patrol teams, business leaders, and local authorities working to keep high streets safe.

While Raw Cut Television confirmed the documentary’s working title as “Hunting the Shoplifters”, further details about the programme are yet to be released.

Stay tuned for updates on the official air date and how Romford’s fight against retail crime will be portrayed to a national audience.