Police have increased patrols in the Taff Trail area of Cardiff after a number of recent incidents.
There have been six robberies or attempt robberies in the Sophia Gardens area since Wednesday, October 6.
Officers are continuing to carry out extra patrols in the affected areas particularly during the evening and are also appealing for information.
Despite these incidents, robberies in Cardiff have significantly reduced by 32.3 per cent, or 149 fewer offences, compared to the same period last year (July to June 2008/2009 compared to 2009/2010)
Detective Inspector Chris Cullen, from Fairwater CID, said: “While Cardiff remains a safe place we would ask people to be aware of their personal safety when they are walking alone at night and to be mindful of their surroundings.
“I would ask people to follow normal crime prevention advice such as not having valuables on show, to stick to well-lit areas, and if possible to walk with company in the hours of darkness.”
The latest incident happened around midnight on Friday when a 52-year-old man turned onto the Taff Trail from Castle Street where he was approached by three males.
He was assaulted and had his wallet, mobile phone and watch stolen.
DI Cullen added: “Some of the witnesses have given similar descriptions so it is possible that the same people are responsible for these incidents particularly because of the similarities of the locations, times, and the nature of the offence.
“The majority have been on the left riverbank from Castle Street near to the Millennium footbridge where they appear to be hiding behind trees waiting.
“We will not tolerate people, who are simply walking home from work or a night out becoming victims of crime in this way.
“Rest assured we are increasing our patrols in these areas and would appeal for anyone with information on who is responsible to contact us.
Anyone with information should contact Fairwater CID on 02920 527248 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
