The Winnipeg Police Service says a renewed holiday safety initiative helped reduce crime in key retail districts during December, with officers making dozens of arrests and recovering thousands of dollars in stolen property.
Building on the success of the 2024 SafeShop Project, the police reinitiated the initiative in December 2025 to enhance safety for shoppers, businesses and staff across the city’s busiest retail areas.
Increased police presence focused on theft prevention and rapid response
Officers from the Major Crimes Unit, the Property Crime Unit and Community Support Units from Districts 2, 3 and 4 were deployed to target areas with high retail activity, aiming to deter criminal activity and provide fast responses to incidents.
According to police, the increased visibility and targeted patrols contributed to a safer environment throughout the holiday shopping season.
Strong enforcement numbers during December
During the month-long project, the Winnipeg Police Service reported:
- 72 people arrested, including 25 who remained in custody
- Seven individuals from the Crime Stoppers Retail Theft Top 10 Most Wanted list arrested, with 85 charges laid
- Seven additional prolific offenders apprehended
- More than 196 criminal charges laid in total
- $23,938.84 in stolen property recovered
“These results show how focused efforts and community partnerships can make a meaningful difference in public safety,” the release says.
Community cooperation remains key: WPS
The Winnipeg Police Service emphasized that creating a safer community is a shared responsibility.
“Everyone — shoppers, retailers and police — plays a role in reducing crime and fostering a secure environment,” the release says. “By working collaboratively, we can make a meaningful difference.”
