Shoplifters (36 and 38) convicted of thefts in Limburg

The suspects have been behind bars since early November and confessed to the facts. One of them stated that he had committed the thefts because his child was very ill and his wife had died. The other said he provided help as a favor to friends. The men used virtually the same method each time. The eldest had to hide the goods in a bag, while the other managed to distract the cashier and paid for something of minimal value himself. Their field of work mainly concerned Colruyt and Okay branches.

Stocktelling

They struck for the first time on October 7 last year. In the Okay in Bree, a stock count turned out to be missing several bottles of drinks. Examination of the camera images revealed that the two were involved in something. This scenario was repeated in Heusden-Zolder, Oudsbergen, Peer, Lommel, Pelt and Bilzen-Hoeselt. The stock count repeatedly pointed to shortages of alcohol, cosmetics products and ink cartridges, among other things. Ultimately, the police managed to arrest the defendants in Lommel. Their vehicle contained numerous stolen products.

The prosecutor asked for 30 months in prison and a 1,600 euro fine for the initiator. His helpful companion was sentenced to 24 months in prison and also a fine. Their lawyers asked for a suspended sentence. “The eyes have been opened in the prison and they have cooperated with the investigation.” Verdict on March 2.

By Editor