Thames Valley Police (TVP) officers in Wokingham have been taking decisive action to tackle key crime and community concerns across the town centre. Recent updates from the Wokingham Neighbourhood Policing Team show significant progress in addressing shoplifting, anti-social behaviour, and drug-related activity.
Robust Action Against Prolific Shoplifters
Wokingham Town Centre’s Neighbourhood Policing Team has adopted a strong approach to persistent retail theft. Over the past three months, officers have identified, caught, and successfully prosecuted four prolific shoplifters operating in the area.
Together, these offenders have received a combined total of 12 years in prison. In addition, police have issued preventative orders to restrict further criminal behaviour once the individuals are released, helping protect local businesses and the wider community.
This action was confirmed by TVP on 17 December 2025.
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour and e-Scooter Misuse
Another priority for the force continues to be anti-social behaviour (ASB), particularly involving groups of young people gathering around the Carnival Pool car park, as well as the growing misuse of e-scooters and e-bikes in the town. This has included concerns about delivery riders and unsafe riding practices.
Since the priority was issued on 01 December 2025, officers have focused on:
- Hotspot patrols at Carnival Pool
- Engagement with young people to highlight safety risks and the impact of their behaviour on residents
- Targeted enforcement through Operation Pulse
As part of this operation, police have:
✔ Seized 16 e-scooters
✔ Reported more than 20 riders for various offences
This balance of education and enforcement aims to keep Wokingham welcoming and safe for all.
Action updates were confirmed on 17 December 2025.
Disrupting Drug Activity in Wokingham
Drug use and dealing across Wokingham Town — particularly around Carnival Pool car park and Goatley Way — remains a key police priority.
Since 01 December 2025, the Neighbourhood Team has been working at all levels to tackle the issue. Their response has ranged from local interventions for lower-level users through to arrests, charges, and court proceedings for more serious offences.
Importantly, the team is also working with support services to encourage rehabilitation. This includes:
- Referrals to counselling
- Access to addiction recovery programmes
- Education and safeguarding advice
Police hope this approach will both reduce offending and support individuals away from criminal lifestyles.
This work was also confirmed as actioned on 17 December 2025.
Working Together for a Safer Wokingham
The updates show Thames Valley Police’s continued commitment to community policing — combining visibility, engagement, and targeted enforcement to address the issues that matter most to residents.
Local people are encouraged to report concerns or intelligence via the TVP website or 101 — and to always use 999 in an emergency.
