Residents urged to be more vigilant
26/07/2012
North Wales Police are asking residents in Corwen and Llangollen
to be extra vigilant following a spate of burglaries at homes in
the area over recent days.
The latest incident occurred overnight at a house in
Gwyddelwern, where car keys were stolen from a hook by the front
door.
Community Safety Inspector Julie Sheard said that there have
been several other reports of keys and cars being stolen in this
area.
She said: “Over recent years car manufacturers have made vehicle
security a priority with more sophisticated systems in place to
stop thieves being able to take the car. As a result criminals have
resorted to more elaborate ways of stealing vehicles.
“It is very important that vehicle owners are aware of this and
take extra precautions to limit becoming a victim of car key
burglary. The people who want these vehicles are professionals and
the cars are either stolen to order or to be used in other
crimes.
“Offenders have been known to cruise locations looking for the
vehicles to target and follow them back to their overnight address
so we are urging everyone to be more vigilant.
“Homeowners are reminded to always ensure their windows and
doors are secure when they leave their properties or go to bed and
not to leave their car or house keys on display or near to the
letterbox. Vehicle owners are also reminded not to leave any items
on display and to always lock their vehicle when left
unattended.
” To minimise the risk of car key burglary:
• Park your vehicle in a secure garage overnight.
• On entering the house lock the front door behind you.
• Never leave your car keys near a door or window. Criminals can
hook keys through open windows and letterboxes. Keep them in a safe
place away from doors and window where they can be seen. People
have stolen keys without even entering the premises.
• Invest in a good quality home security system.
• Install security lights to the front and rear of your property
and consider installing CCTV cameras.
• Gate your driveway if possible.
For more information on protecting your home, vehicle or any
other property please contact your local crime prevention officer
at North Wales Police on 101 or visit the Advice and Support
section here.
Anyone seeing anything suspicious should make a note of the
details and contact the police immediately on 999.