Police warning after spate of burglaries

North Wales Police are asking residents in Llan and Corwen 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.

Police advice to minimise the risk of car key burglary are:
• 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.