Shoplifting on Camden Passage has left local businesses feeling “violated”, with complaints that police and the council are failing to address the issue.
Susan, who works in B’Atelyer, a womenswear boutique, said there had been a series of “massive thefts” from local shops on the passage.
She added that the thefts left her “feeling violated, and you become paranoid.”
Her colleague Tania said “it feels like it’s not being policed. Someone patrolling the passage would be great.”
Stolen items include homeware and expensive clothing.
Shop owners have said that they have been targeted by thieves when they know women are working in stores alone, to reduce chances of them being challenged.
Morgane, who works in the fashion and homeware store HAYGEN, said there is nothing she could do: “I’m not going to risk being stabbed over a candle.”
Several business owners expressed concerns that a lack of cameras on the passage enables an easy escape.
They described how a lack of police presence means they are forced to deal with the crimes themselves.
Morgane described how male staff from the nearby fish shop act as unofficial security guards.
She said “the police are useless; the fisherman is better.”
Jasper, who works at Le Coq Epicier, said “the Council don’t give any support, and neither do the police”.
He added that a previous shop on the passage had been forced to close due to shoplifting.
Islington Council said “You can find details about community safety in Islington on our website as well as details of how businesses and residents can report incidents of ASB and crime like shoplifting.
“The council also launched a day and night patrol to help support the community and this has been active since May this year.”
According to Met Police data, St Peter’s & Canalside saw a 22 per cent increase in theft offences between August 2025 and September 2025.
The Metropolitan Police declined to comment.
