Manitoba drive to bring down booze thefts may crack down on repeat offenders

WINNIPEG—The Manitoba government is promising new efforts to stem rising liquor store robberies.

Justice Minister Cliff Cullen says representatives from police forces, liquor stores and Crown attorneys are to work together to find solutions.

Cullen says the effort may include new ways to crack down on repeat offenders, but details are to be worked out by the group.

The CEO of Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries has said the government-run stores have been “under siege” for more than a year now.

Videos that have circulated on social media have shown groups of thieves walking into stores, filling bags and backpacks with booze and then simply walking out.

One robbery last week turned violent as a thief punched a worker unconscious and left her with a concussion and other injuries.

Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries has stepped up some store security measures, including new entrances that require customers to show photo identification before being allowed in.

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