Prolific Chichester shoplifter jailed over latest offences
Main article content
A prolific Chichester shop thief has been sentenced for his latest offences across the city.
Mwiya Kamutumwa, aged 25, admitted multiple thefts and breaches of a Criminal Behaviour Order.
The 25-year-old, also known as Kush, targeted Co-op stores, One Stop, TK Maxx and others.
He was identified as a prolific offender as part of Operation Apprentice.
At Portsmouth Crown Court on 15 April he admitted 17 shop thefts, 13 breaches of a Criminal Behaviour Order, burglary other than a dwelling, and obstructing a police officer in the execution of their duty.
Kamutumwa, of West Broyle, Chichester, was sentenced to a total of four years in prison.
The court was told how offences included stealing clothes and backpack from the British Heart Foundation charity shop in October last year.
Between February and March this year he committed 14 shop theft offences, and breached a Criminal Behaviour Order nine times.
It included three thefts from the co-op in Spitalfield Lane where he took meat, fish, soft drinks, cake and biscuits.
He targeted the Co-op in East Street three times, taking Prosecco, chocolate and washing detergent.
Kamutumwa also entered the One Stop store in St Paul’s Road on three occasions, taking milkshake, beer, and Prosecco.
He also admitted thefts at Waitrose in Via Ravenna, Tk Maxx in East Street, and Marks and Spencer in Portfield Retail Park.
Speaking after the case, District Commander Chief Inspector Adam McCaig said: “Kamutumwa is a prolific offender who has shown no regard for the impact his offences have had on staff and our communities.
“So I am pleased he is serving a custodial sentence.
“We understand the impact retail crime can have on businesses, staff and the wider community, and tackling shoplifting remains a priority for us. While recent reporting does not indicate a significant increase in shoplifting, we recognise that any incident can have a real impact and will always be taken seriously.
“We continue to work alongside local retailers and partner agencies to support effective reporting and promote crime prevention measures.
“Visible policing and community reassurance are central to our approach, and through ongoing activity we are focused on identifying and dealing with those responsible for offences, particularly repeat offenders.
“We are committed to supporting local businesses and will take action where offences are identified and evidence allows.
“We would encourage businesses, staff and members of the public to report incidents to us, either online or by calling 101. In an emergency, always call 999.”