Christmas fever strikes shoplifters

A Christmas ham and gift items were high on shoplifters' wish lists, police say during operation targeting Sydney retail precincts.

Christmas decorations and celebrations banned in Brunei and Tajikistan. Source: AAP

Thieves appear to be getting into the spirit of Christmas with a Christmas ham and typical gift items topping their shoplifting lists.

Operation Lightfingers was conducted in the Sydney CBD, Bondi Junction and Broadway in response to increased reports of retail theft and fraud in the Christmas lead-up.

During the four-day operation, police dealt with 94 people over more than 100 offences and property stolen valued at $3500.

Perfume, jewellery, electronics, manchester and clothing topped the list of items stolen.

Food was also high on the list of stolen items, including a Christmas ham taken from a supermarket.