MORE than 30 face masks were stolen from a high street store.

Two offenders were detained by plain-clothed officers in Boscombe on Tuesday, April 23.

Once arrested, police said the goods were returned to the store.

A spokesperson for Bournemouth Police said: “Officers from the Boscombe Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) conducted a day of action in Boscombe Precinct today.

“The day of action focused on shoplifting which has been occurring in several retail stores within the Precinct over the past months.

“The primary aim was to intercept prolific offenders in action and bring them to justice for the offences committed.

“Police officers were deployed wearing plain clothes to help them remain anonymous and observe the offences taking place. Warranted officers still have powers of arrest even whilst not wearing a uniform.

“They will carry a police warrant card to identify themselves at appropriate times.

“Two prolific offenders were detained and subsequently arrested and the stolen goods were recovered and returned to the store.

“If police are unable to attend shopliftings at the time due to other dynamic threats, risk and harm in the area, it is imperative that any witness details and CCTV footage is retained, and any safety protocol is adhered to by management.”