Christmas shoppers are being urged not to buy goods which may have been stolen as police launch a crackdown on those selling such items.

Police said buying stolen property is not a victimless offence and it often helps fund serious and organised crime.

Selling on or taking possession of stolen goods is known as resetting and items not recovered by police may end up being sold on to the public, often at a cheaper price than in shops or online.

Police urged people not to buy items if they are suspicious about where they came from.

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Detective Superintendent Catriona Henderson, who is leading the campaign to tackle reset, said: "While it is natural to look for the best deal when buying any product, it is not acceptable to view the purchase of stolen goods as a cheaper alternative to buying in-store or online.

"In fact, it is a criminal offence to knowingly take possession of any item that has been obtained by criminal means.

"Resetting stolen property is not a victimless crime. Often the things being stolen are from another member of the public's home and were intended as a gift for a loved one or friend. Alternatively, they are taken from commercial businesses who then make claims on their insurance and have to raise their own prices as a result.

"What our investigations into resetting often find is that those involved are part of a wider chain of organised crime, and it is the profit made from selling stolen goods that then funds more significant criminal activity.

"Acquisitive crime in any form will not be tolerated and if you choose to buy an item where you either know or believe it to be stolen, it could result in you receiving a criminal conviction.

"Please only buy from reputable sources and if you are in any doubt whatsoever, do not make the purchase and notify police."

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As part of the campaign, police will liaise with second-hand retailers in all major towns and cities to identify any items that may have been obtained as a result of a crime.

They will also visit markets and stalls in various regions to ensure all goods being sold have been lawfully obtained for sale.

Stephanie Karte from Retailers Against Crime said: "Shoplifting and thefts from shops can have serious consequences for retailers in terms of profitability and continued viability.

"We would encourage anyone looking for bargains online to be wary of where products seem too good to be true."

Trading Standards officers also warned people against buying fake goods, which often do not meet safety standards.