Manitoba Liquor Marts will soon be getting enhanced security measures to stave off the rash of often violent liquor thefts.

In an announcement on Thursday, March 21, 2019, Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries said that they would be deploying a multi-point theft reduction plan to thwart theft while protecting staff and customers.

“Individuals who take alcohol products without paying have become increasingly brazen and unpredictable when confronted, and the measures we’re taking address this shift,” said Liquor & Lotteries President and CEO Peter Hak. “We want our customers and our employees to know that we take their safety seriously and we also want to send the message that if you steal from a Liquor Mart, you will be caught.”

Since October 2018 Winnipeg Police have made 113 arrests related to liquor store thefts.

The new security plan will include adding special duty police officers in some stores as well as training a new loss prevention officer team that will work in stores during peak periods or where theft has increased.

Liquor Marts may also request photo identification from any customer, regardless of age, before they are permitted to enter the store. People without ID when requested will be refused entry.

Customers will also be required to check their bag while in some stores.

Liquor bottles will fitted with bottle neck locks as well as some high value products will be locked inside a display case. Other products will be on alarm pedestals.

Stores will also be enhancing surveillance measures and adding physical barriers such as controlled entrances and exits.

Changes are expected to be rolled out over the next several months.