There have been a number of vehicle
thefts in the Gower area recently. Gower
Neighbourhood Policing Team want to
stress the importance of locking your
vehicle and keeping your key with you at
all times. PCSO Suzie Broad who covers the
area commented “Criminals are targeting
surfers in particular. It appears that
whoever is responsible for these thefts is
watching the victim leave their keys above
a wheel arch or a bag on the beach and are
then quickly taking the keys, accessing the
vehicle and driving away within minutes.
Insurance companies aren’t willing to pay
out on some occasions if the key has been left above the wheel arch or near to the vehicle” PCSO
Broad was also keen to encourage the use of waterproof key pouches “These are relatively cheap to
purchase online and can help stop vehicles being taken.” Whilst there have been an increase in vehicle
thefts officers are keen to stress the importance of keeping valuables on you and making sure that if
they are left inside the vehicle they are out of sight. PCSO Andy Brown who covers Gower stated
“Thieves are targeting changing rooms in sports facilities and clubs especially on weekends during
match times. They are gaining access, searching bags and clothes for keys and then proceeding to take
them.” PCSO Brown added “Please be vigilant and report anything suspicious via 101 or 999 in an
emergency. Please utilise lockers or safes within you respective clubs.”
PC Craig Evans of Gower Neighbourhood
team said “There has been a significant
increase in vehicle thefts over the last month.
Ford Fiestas seem to be the most popular at
the moment. It appears that those who are
responsible are organised and working with
others to ensure a quick getaway. I
encourage people to take necessary steps to
prevent these thefts happening. Most new
cars now have keyless start technology.
Criminals are using electronic devices to scan
for a signal at work places or the home and
then tricking the car into believing the key is
inside. This can be prevented by purchasing a
‘faraday case’ which are readily available on the internet where you simply place your keys in the case
and block the signal. Other methods including the use of a steering lock and wheel clamp are also
effective as a simple deterrent.” PC Evans added “Gower NPT are committed to locating and arresting
those responsible and keeping the communities we serve safe. As part of ‘Operation Cinnamon’ We
will be stepping up our high visibility patrols and utilising technology including the automatic facial
recognition van and drones to ensure we are best equipped to prevent further thefts.” Please follow
@SWPSwansea and @Gowernptsgt for regular updates on Twitter.
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