Unscrupulous Selby traders are buying shoplifted goods from heroin addicts and selling them on for profit, police revealed today.

Detective Sergeant Dave Pegg, of Selby CID, said handling offences were a "growing problem" in the town centre and warned businesses to stop the practice or face prosecution.

More than ten shops were believed to regularly buy cut-price shoplifted goods from between 15 and 20 local criminals, and then attempt to sell on the items at their own stores.

DS Pegg said the thieves were known heroin addicts who were desperate for cash to pay for their next fix.

He told the Evening Press: "Every time a trader buys shoplifted goods from a thief they're stabbing another local business in the back. It also encourages thieves to steal again.

"We want to warn people that if any information or evidence comes to light which indicates such offences are being committed, positive action will be taken and prosecutions reached."

Stolen items being sold to traders include large jars of coffee, razor blades, batteries and meat.

DS Pegg said someone who had knowledge of the "handling scene" was currently helping them with their inquiries.

"Enough is enough - these businesses are making it far too easy for local criminals," he added.

Chairman of Selby Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Geoff Gordon, warned members to be on their guard.

He told the Evening Press: "We should all be aware of this problem.

"The basic advice is not to buy anything from someone who isn't providing an authenticated service. Anyone offering to sell cheap goods should be treated with extreme caution.

"Even if an item was bought in complete innocence, the court still treats it as handling stolen goods and you can end up in a lot of trouble."

Anyone with information should contact Selby CID on 01757 702596.

Updated: 16:10 Tuesday, June 12, 2001