Police are urging farmers and people living in isolated rural areas in Caerphilly County Borough to be on their guard after a spate of burglaries over the last six weeks.
In total 15 thefts have taken place in Risca (ten), Bedwas (three) and Blackwood (two) – with eight quad bikes, five mountain bikes, oil and tools stolen from premises.
Police say thieves are targeting rural and isolated premises during the evening time.
Officers are also warning residents to be aware of thieves visiting the area under some other pretence such as collecting scrap metal.
Rural residents and farmers can sign-up to the police’s Farm Watch – a crime prevention scheme.
PCSO Allan Mills, Farm Watch Co-ordinator for Caerphilly Local Policing Unit, said: “This is a unique opportunity for us to disrupt criminal activity against the farming community and to build a better working relationship with farmers and commoners. It also offers us a chance to combat illegal off-roading, fly tipping, theft of livestock and other issues that cause financial loss to the farmers and affect quality of life
“After the recent spate of burglaries, we would advise occupiers of similar premises to take sensible precautions, such as ensuring quad bikes are chained to fixings and outbuildings are locked and secured with good quality locks. Good lighting such as a PIR light is also a useful deterrent.
“Invisible property marking aids such as forensic marking technology can assist in terms of identifying stolen vehicles.
“I would also advise owners to photograph their vehicles and record identification numbers/markings. If you have any suspicions regarding persons in the area, where safe to do so, record registration numbers and report your concerns to police by telephoning Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
To become a member of Farm Watch contact Risca PCSO Allan Mills on allan.mills@gwent.pnn.police.uk or 01495 233 942.