As part of Operation Safe and Nice to All (SANTA) shoplifters are being warned they face being banned from all participating shops for up to a year if caught stealing this Christmas.
A Steal and Be Banned scheme is in operation in Welshpool to protect businesses from shoplifting and shoppers from being targeted by thieves.
PCSO Neville said: “The Steal and Be Banned (SABB) scheme is an effective and robust approach to combat shoplifting in Welshpool. It brings together the business community giving them an active role in helping catch and preventing shoplifting, particularly at this busy time of year.”
Stores that are members of the initiative are part of a SABB committee who decide if someone should be banned after they have been convicted in court or been issued with a Fixed-Penalty Notice or caution.