Rishi Sunak’s shoplifting crackdown faces derision after a man stole three bottles of wine close to where the prime minister pledged to end the “blight” on Britain’s high streets.

Sussex World reported police confirming a “shoplifting incident” had taken place at Tesco Express in Horsham town centre on Wednesday.

“The suspect, who is known locally to officers, was reported to have stolen three bottles of wine,” a statement added, continuing the suspect was issued with a warning.

At that time, Sunak visited a Boots store in the West Sussex town, where staff showed him safety measures in place for workers.

Speaking to reporters at Horsham police station, he said: “I have been concerned by the rise in retail crime as I’m sure many others are either seeing it or on social media, which is why today we’ve announced a strong set of measures to clamp down on retail crime.

“(It’s) been warmly welcomed by retailers and police that I’ve spoken to today and crucially will demonstrate to our shop workers that we’ve got their back and also that we will do what it takes to keep our streets and our community safe.”

Labour hit out at Tory “utter failure and impotence”.

Alex Norris MP, Labour’s shadow policing minister, said: “Never has there been a more visible sign of this Tory government’s utter failure and impotence than for a shoplifting incident to take place while Rishi Sunak is making an announcement about how ‘tough’ he is on shoplifting.

“The Tories just can’t get anything right and the country is suffering. It’s time for change and a general election.”