A Geelong retail manager has described a frightening encounter after he was allegedly threatened with a knife while pursuing a suspected shoplifter who had fled from his family-owned business.
The incident occurred on 15 June at The Geelong Skate Shop, located on the corner of Yarra Street and Malop Street in Geelong's CBD. According to the store manager, a woman entered the shop around midday and remained inside for approximately 45 minutes. He recognised her as someone who had allegedly attempted to steal merchandise from the store on a previous occasion but chose to monitor her rather than immediately confront her.
Security camera footage allegedly captured the woman browsing clothing before concealing items and running from the store. As the shop's alarm sounded, the manager chased her into a nearby car park behind an Officeworks store in an effort to recover the stolen goods.
However, the pursuit quickly turned dangerous. Police say the manager was confronted by a man armed with a knife, who allegedly threatened him during the chase. Faced with the weapon, the manager stopped pursuing the suspects, who then fled towards Ryrie Street. No injuries were reported during the incident, and police continue to investigate. No arrests have been made.
The manager said the incident highlights the growing challenges faced by independent retailers. Unlike large national chains, family-owned businesses often absorb the financial impact of stolen stock, making repeated thefts particularly damaging.
He also expressed frustration that offenders appear increasingly confident about stealing from retail stores, adding that businesses are already facing significant financial pressures from rising operating costs. According to the manager, retail theft has become a regular concern for many businesses in Geelong's central shopping district.
The incident comes as newly released crime statistics show a significant increase in retail theft across the city. Data from the Crime Statistics Agency Victoria recorded 612 "steal from retail store" offences in the Geelong suburb during the 12 months to March 2026, compared with 350 offences in 2017. The figures also represent an increase from 558 offences recorded during the previous reporting period, indicating the problem continues to worsen.
Victoria Police are continuing to investigate the alleged theft and the reported armed threat. Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage and are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information to come forward.
Authorities continue to remind retailers that while protecting property is understandable, personal safety should always take priority when dealing with suspected offenders. Police advise business owners and staff to report thefts immediately and avoid placing themselves at risk when confronting suspects, particularly where weapons may be involved.
The incident has renewed concerns among local businesses about retail crime in Geelong, with many calling for stronger enforcement and greater support to help combat repeat offending in the city's commercial precinct.
