Serial shoplifter caught after faking barcode scans at Seoul self-service store 18 times

Seoul police have apprehended a serial shoplifter who repeatedly stole from a self-service store in the Guro district over approximately one month. The suspect is accused of making 18 separate thefts, consistently exploiting the store's automated checkout system.

According to police reports, the individual would approach the self-checkout kiosk with arms full of merchandise. Instead of completing the payment process, the suspect would merely pretend to scan the barcodes before leaving the store with the unpaid items. This pattern of behavior occurred roughly every two days, leading to a total of 18 instances of theft within a single month.

Persistent losses prompted the store to report the incidents, initiating a police investigation. Detectives analyzed in-store CCTV footage to track the suspect's movements and eventually identified their residence. A crucial piece of evidence emerged when investigators noticed the suspect consistently wore the same distinctive blue slippers during each alleged crime. This consistent detail, combined with movement tracking, allowed police to identify and apprehend the suspect just one day after the theft report was filed.

Authorities have stated they will strengthen crackdowns and preventative measures targeting crimes at self-service stores, acknowledging the growing vulnerability of such businesses to theft.

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Police will strengthen crackdowns and preventative activities against crimes targeting self-service stores.