SUSPECTED stolen clothes and other items were found at a property after police were alerted to suspicious behaviour in Salisbury.

Nine people have been arrested on suspicion of theft and money laundering after an incident in the city on Friday morning (November 3).

Police responded to reports a lot of items were being loaded into a van, having been removed from an address in Fisherton Street.

Concerns for the welfare of a woman seen getting into the back of the vehicle were also raised with officers.

The address was searched and four people were found inside, along with a large number of suspected stolen items, mostly consisting of clothes.

The van was later stopped in Worcester, and when it was established the woman was safe and well, all three in the vehicle were arrested.

Three people have been arrested on suspicion of theft, and six people were arrested on suspicion of theft and money laundering.

All nine have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

PC Daniel Catterick, of Wiltshire Police, said: “We’re acutely aware that shoplifting is a continuous problem for many businesses in the city, especially in the months leading up to the Christmas season.

“We will continue to have a robust response in relation to any reports received from partner agencies, businesses and members of the public.

“Reporting this kind of behaviour will allow us to bring serial offenders before the courts. I would urge anyone who witnesses this kind of behaviour to report it to Wiltshire Police.”