AN increase in shoplifting saw an initiative introduced in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area which has made an impact, councillors heard on Wednesday.

Cowdenbeath Area Committee was told by Community Inspector Gavin Cameron that the numbers of people being caught stealing from the shelves of local shops did hit an upward trend.

But he added: "To tackle shoplifting a local initiative has been implemented under the 'Operation Principal' banner.

"All offenders are managed robustly and arrested and taken into custody. Depending on their history they will appear at Court from custody or be released on undertaking with specific bail conditions.

"This initiative has already seen an increase in detection rates and a reduction in the number of shoplifting offences locally in comparison to other parts of Fife. A number of prolific offenders have received prison sentences."