The two-day operation was conducted Thursday and Friday at local retailers including Macy's, Ralphs, Sam's Club, Sears, Stater Brothers, TJ Maxx, Target and Walmart.
Thirty suspects ranging in age from 14 to 60 were arrested.
San Bernardino police say the effort also uncovered information related to illicit fencing operations.
Officials say organized retail crime is responsible for nearly $30 billion in loss annually for U.S. retailers.