- Marks & Spencer's director, Thinus Keeve, has warned that high street crime is becoming "more brazen, more organised and more aggressive," with retail staff facing daily abuse and violence.
- Mr Keeve called on the Government and London's City Hall to tackle anti-social behaviour, citing large groups of teenagers, often encouraged by social media, swarming shopping areas.
- M&S's chief executive has written to the Home Secretary, and Mr Keeve to London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, urging for a stronger, faster, and more consistent police response.
- This follows recent incidents, including teenagers arranging "link-ups" via social media in Clapham, south London, leading to anti-social behaviour and assaults on five people, including four police officers.
- Sir Sadiq Khan condemned the Clapham incidents as "utterly unacceptable," promising further arrests and stating police are working with social media companies to address content promoting violence and theft.
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