Retailers and pharmacies report surge in theft and frustration at lack of action

Cost-of-living squeeze has resulted in a 41pc rise in the crime with east and south of the country worst hit

The Irish Pharmacy Union found that 74pc of Irish pharmacies had experienced crime last year, up 9pc from 2021. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Caoimhe Gordon

Shopkeepers and pharmacists say they’re facing a rising wave of theft as the cost of essentials rises sharply.