VAN owners in Cwmbran are being warned to check their vehicle security after a number of thefts in the area.

They have been warned to remove expensive tools from their vehicles after a number of thefts in the last week.

Five Ford Transit vans have been broken into and a number of items have been stolen, mainly power tools including drills and saws.

The vans have been targeted in the Pontnewydd, St Dials and Upper Cwmbran areas.

Crime and disorder reduction officer, PC Tom Delaney, said: “Where possible, I would advise van owners to remove expensive tools from their vehicles at the end of each day.

“It’s also a good idea to property mark your tools and equipment, so that if they are recovered they can be traced back to you. It’s also worth registering the details of your equipment on the Immobilise website – www.immobilise.com. This is a secure database that police forces check when they recover property, to reunite it with the rightful owner.

“Following these recent thefts, I would encourage van owners to be particularly vigilant. If anyone sees anything suspicious in their area, then please get in contact with us.”

If you have any information about suspicious people or vehicles in your community, please call 101. If you think a crime is taking place, always call 999.