FIVE people were caught by police as part of an operation to deter business and retail crime. 

The Banbury Neighbourhood Team has been running 'Operation Purchase' this weekend across the town centre and retail parks.

Operation Purchase aims to deter business and retail crime and provide visible reassurance to staff.

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Over this weekend, five people were caught by officers as part of the operation.

A 40-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man were caught stealing items from a local business.

The property was recovered and given back to the store and the duo will be attending the police station at a later date for interview and a suitable disposal.

A 35-year-old man was caught stealing from Marks & Spencer and has been issued with an out-of-court disposal.

An offender who was in the process of de-tagging goods ready to steal them was caught and fled the scene.

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A 43-year-old woman was arrested who was wanted on warrant having previously failed to appear at court for shoplifting offences.

She was remanded to appear before the next available court.

And a 53-year-old man was also arrested.

The Neighbourhood Team is in consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service to try and seek a Criminal Behaviour Order for him.