Austrian store detectives dress as baby Jesus to catch thieves

London, Nov 29 (ANI): Store detectives at Christmas Markets in Austria are dressing up as baby Jesus in their attempt to catch shoplifters and pick pockets.

The undercover detectives have replaced actors, who usually play the part, in their bid to stop criminals from taking advantage of the crowds, and from stealing items from the stalls and shoppers' bags.

"They are in among the crowds all day long and they are perfect for keeping an eye out for petty crooks," the Telegraph quoted a spokesman for the city council in Weitra, Austria, which is one of those to employ the Christ child detectives, as saying.

But the idea of using staff to play the role of the Christ Child and to also catch thieves has been criticised by church officials.

Christmas markets selling mulled wine, festive decorations and souvenirs have developed into an essential part of the Austrian economy. (ANI)