Shoplifters are targeting moneyed Hampstead High Street to make a quick buck and fund their drug habits, a cop has said.

Two clothing shops were recently hit by the same group of crooks and lost out on £1,500 of goods, Pc Saydul “Saf” Karim told subscribers of the “I Love Hampstead” newsletter.

Staff members have been left petrified by the thieves, he added.

But Pc Karim assured: “The Hampstead team is working in partnership with Camden Business Against Crime (CBAC) to try to tackle shoplifters by using a radio system linked to Camden CCTV and the local police.

“As part of this partnership we attend a monthly meeting with local businesses to see how we can help and assist our businesses against shoplifters who are causing such frustration to local shops, often leaving staff members frightened and scared.”

Any business which wants to be part of the CBAC scheme can email sara.smith@oscommsonline.com