A woman from Caerphilly whose Christmas was soured by thieves has warned fellow residents about break-ins.
Laura Waites, 23, and her partner were gearing up for Christmas with their children when their Ford Transit van was broken into on Wednesday December 22.
Police figures for September and October showed a sharp rise in vehicle crime across Caerphilly.
The radio was stolen from the couple’s van, as well as Christmas money for their daughter.
Stay-at-home mother Laura said: “Whoever broke into the van nicked the radio and money that we’d been saving for my daughter this Christmas.
“You’d think that people would have more important things to do, considering it’s Christmas. It’s quite a sad situation.
“We’ve got CCTV outside of the house and you can see them take a look inside the van. It was at around 3.30am, and it was quick.
The couple, who keep horses on Caerphilly mountain, have had vehicles broken into previously this year, including in November when a crowbar was used to prise open the back doors and tools and a horse passport were stolen.
As a result of the increase in vehicle crime, Gwent Police last week held an educational event in Castle View car park, Caerphilly.
A dummy vehicle was set up with twelve common mistakes including loose change in the cup holder, a missing parcel shelf, and Sat Nav holder on the windscreen. Residents were asked to spot each of the mistakes.
Caerphilly and Bedwas Inspector, Andy O’Keefe, said: “It is a bit of fun to find all the items on view but has a serious message to show just how vulnerable we leave ourselves to being victims of car crime if we don’t put items out of view and lock our cars.”
Gwent Police Constable Stuart Lewis, Crime and Disorder Reduction Officer for Caerphilly said: “We continue to conduct regular patrols in the area and carry out operations to target offenders.
“I would ask residents to remain vigilant and follow these simple tips to protect their vehicle:
– Keep your vehicle locked and secure when left unattended
– Remove any items from view – especially of high value
– If possible park in a secure location – i.e. garage – if not park in a well-lit area
“If you see any suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, please report it to police. Call 101, or in an emergency, 999.”