A festive thief was caught red-handed after trying to pinch just three Christmas crackers.
The hapless crook then discovered police already wanted him for suspected theft and robbery.
The seasonal shoplifter was nabbed at the scene by sharp-eyed staff who spotted him stuffing the trio of crackers into his pocket.
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Officers quickly detained the suspect before he could make a getaway.
Thames Valley Police arrived at the scene at John Lewis in Milton Keynes on yesterday (24 Nov).
The “cracker of a coincidence” ended with the man leaving the department store in handcuffs, where he now remains in custody.
Officers applauded the John Lewis team for their quick work, as reported by Need To Know.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “This afternoon, our Central Milton Keynes Neighbourhood team answered a call from John Lewis after their sharp-eyed Loss Prevention Officers detained a shoplifter.
“The festive loot? Three Christmas crackers.
“But when officers arrived, they discovered this wasn’t just a case of seasonal mischief, the suspect was already wanted for theft and robbery.
“That’s what we call a cracker of a coincidence.
“He’s now in custody, and investigations are ongoing.
“Big thanks to the John Lewis team for their quick action.
“Moral of the story? If you’re planning your Christmas shopping, stick to the checkout, it’s a lot less explosive.”
Members of the public were left chuckling at the bizarre arrest.
One person said: “Not a bright thing to do for three crackers.”
Another added: “Job well done.”
One user said: “He’ll be out way before John Lewis puts the stolen stock back on the shelves.”
Someone added: “There goes my Christmmas shopping list, well done TVP.”
And another added: “Love a personal shopper.”
