Police warn over shed thefts

Police in south Denbighshire are calling on residents to ensure they keep their sheds and outbuildings secure.

 

The warning is being made following a few incidents over the past months - including Llangollen - where a variety of items have been taken from the buildings.

 

The offences have happened during various times of the day and power tools, quad bikes, metal and bicycles have been the main items taken.

 

“The majority of the incidents have happened at rural properties and therefore we are urging residents to not only keep their sheds and outbuildings locked but also to regularly check the buildings,” said Inspector Siobhan Edwards.

 

“We believe that the incidents which have happened in the Dolwen, Betws yn Rhos, Trefriw, areas are linked and that the incidents that have happened in the St Asaph,  Trefnant,  Denbigh, Corwen, Llangollen, Llanarmon-yn-Ial, Llanferres, Llandyrnog and Llanelidan areas are onnected separately.”

 

Police inquiries into the incidents are on-going and officers in both south Denbighshire and the Conwy rural areas are working hard to prevent and detect crime. Residents can however also play their part and assist by taking steps that will make it difficult for offenders to gain access to their buildings.

 

Many thefts can be prevented if steps to protect the property are taken. The following are some top tips that can help keep your property secure:

 

•             Ensure that your shed is locked using a heavy duty pad lock

•             Make sure your shed / outbuilding is in good condition with any damaged area replaced or repaired.

•             Property marking – ensure valuable property is security marked with your postcode. Make a note of serial numbers.

•             Garden tools- If possible, loop a strong chain through the handles and connect the ends to a strong padlock. If possible, fix a large metal eyelet to part of the shed frame and loop the chain through it.

•             Pathways – Gravel pathways make it almost impossible for a thief to walk through the garden to your shed quietly.

•             Lighting – Install lights which come on when it gets dark or fit motion/ sensor lights that activate when someone passes.

 

Inspector Edwards added: “Anyone who would like more information on protecting their property can contact their local officers on 101. Alternatively, residents can visit their local officers at one of the many police surgeries that are held each week in Denbigh, Ruthin, Llangollen and Corwen.   

 

“Finally, we continue to appeal to anyone who has information regarding the thefts to get in touch. Similarly, we are extremely keen to hear from anyone who may have been offered gardening tools, power tools or bikes to call us on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”