Neighbourhood Policing Teams across Penarth are acting to clamp down on autocrime across the sector. A special exercise under the name of operation cantabile has been developed both to reassure the public and to deter potential criminals.
Officers across the area will be carrying out high visibility patrols and checking the security measures taken by car owners to ensure the safety of their vehicles.
Penarth Neighbourhood Sergeant Julie Madoc said: “A number of thefts have been from insecure motor vehicles and we felt that something could be offered to their owners to remind them to lock their vehicles.
“We have secured funding for the production of special key rings which will remind motorists to lock their cars when leaving them unattended. The key rings flash on and off warning people to lock their vehicles and can be attached to the keys. They will be given to anyone identified as having a vulnerable vehicle to remind them to lock their car.
“Police officers and PCSOs will be patrolling throughout Penarth both on foot patrol and in marked patrol cars and they will distribute crime prevention leaflets and advice to members of the public.
“While car crime in general is at a very low level here in the Vale of Glamorgan I would urge motorists not to become complacent. Do not leave anything of value in your cars when they are parked and unattended. If you have a removable radio always take it with you when you leave your vehicle. You should always take any valuables with you and make sure all doors and windows are made secure before leaving your vehicle.”
