Peterborough shoplifter threw pumpkin at Asda security guard

A shoplifter who threw a pumpkin at a shop security guard in Peterborough after being caught trying to steal a bottle of wine has been fined.

On 1 November, Mohammed Fatah entered Asda in Rivergate and attempted to steal the bottle by hiding it in his trousers.

He was confronted by the security guard who took the bottle of wine from him and escorted him out of the shop.

A short while later, Fatah, 25, re-entered the store carrying a pumpkin before throwing it at the security guard and making off with three bunches of flowers.

Fatah, of no fixed address, was arrested after CCTV operators observed him entering a shop in Long Causeway, Peterborough city centre, and leaving shortly after with a bag of crisps.

He appeared at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court on Friday (3 November) where he was ordered to pay a £50 fine and a further £50 in compensation to the security guard after pleading guilty to common assault and two counts of theft.

Recent figures showed there was a major increase in shoplifting in Peterborough over the past 12 months, with more than five offences recorded every day in the city.

PC Phoebe Bird, who investigated, said: “Shoplifting and other business-related crime is something we are working hard to improve for our business communities.

“However, in order to continue this work, reports from businesses affected by shoplifting is vital, so I urge them to continue reporting to us.”