RESIDENTS in Pontypool are advised to be extra vigilant after reports of a 'cluster of crime' in the area.

Gwent Police are advising residents to be vigilant with their shed, garage and vehicle security after an increase in crimes this week.

Incidents included a black Claud Butler mountain bike which was stolen from a garage on St Matthew’s Road, Cwmfields, Pontypool, during the evening/overnight on Monday. Access to the garage was gained by damaging a UPVC door and tools were also stolen. (Log: 112 06/10/15)

A Citroën Saxo was broken into on St Matthew’s Road also on Monday where a car radio was stolen. (Log: 411 06/10/15)

A number plate was removed from the rear of a Peugeot 107 parked in Glosters Parade in Pontypool between 8.15am and 10.30am on Tuesday. (Log: 131 06/10/15)

Pilkington’s Sports and Social Club on New Road in Pontypool was also targeted by thieves between Saturday and Monday, October 5. Nothing was stolen but a rear door was damaged to gain entry. (Log: 140 05/10/150)

PC Tom Delaney, crime and disorder reduction officer, said: “We’ve recently seen a cluster of crime with no pattern throughout the Pontypool area. I’m urging residents to always keep their homes, sheds, garages and vehicles secure at all times.

“I want residents to remember that thieves will take any chance they can, a crime takes seconds to happen, please don’t make it easy for thieves by leaving tempting valuables on display in your homes, sheds, garages or cars.”

He added: “We will now be increasing our patrols of the area, in particular overnight. If you do see any suspicious activity, please call us immediately on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or if you have any information relating to the above crimes, please call 101, quoting the log number.”