Gwent Police targeting thieves in Blaenau Gwent

Twenty traders on Tafarnaubach industrial estate, Tredegar, have been given forensic marking solution kits and deterrent signs recently as the force’s We Don’t Buy Crime team continue to crack down on theft offences in Gwent.

Gwent Police’s dedicated team tackling burglary, theft and robbery have worked with businesses on an industrial estate in Tafarnaubach to help them protect their livelihoods from potential thieves.

Officers have spoken to local business owners about how they can improve security measures at their premises, advised them on the use of lighting and CCTV and given them property marking kits and deterrent signs.

The forensic marking kits, which are unique to each business, allow users to mark their valuable possessions with an invisible, traceable solution.

The forensic solution, which can be seen under a UV light, makes it easier for police officers to connect offenders with specific crimes and stolen property – and return the property to its the rightful owner.

One local businesswoman, Naomi Searie, said: “The unit had been broken into a number of times prior in the past, but, since the signs have been displayed and the Smartwater implemented, we haven't had any further issues and very happy with the scheme.”

Earlier this year, Gwent Police became the first Welsh force to launch a new preventative approach to protecting communities from burglary, theft and robbery.

Inspector Shane Underwood said: “We know that crime can have a devastating impact on businesses of all sizes and can affect revenue, people’s jobs and an area’s reputation.

“I’m delighted that the Tarfarnaubach industrial estate is now benefitting from this proven crime prevention initiative and I’d like to thank the police and crime commissioner and colleagues in the We Don’t Buy Crime team for their commitment.

“We continue to support residents and businesses across Blaenau Gwent by using tried and tested methods that make it harder for criminals to get away with crimes that have a severe impact on the area.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage other industrial estate businesses across Blaenau Gwent to invest in replicating what is now in place in Tafaranaubach.  Please contact the We Don’t Buy Crime team for further information.”

The We Don’t Buy Crime department is funded and supported by the office of the police and crime commissioner for Gwent.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “Crime prevention is the one of the key priorities in my Police and Crime Plan, and the We Don’t Buy Crime model is a proven way to reduce crime and prevent reoffending.

“It is fantastic to have businesses from the whole Tafaranaubach industrial estate on board. It sends a clear message to thieves that their actions will not be tolerated here and I would encourage other businesses across Gwent to look at what is happening here and sign up.”

For more information on how Gwent Police are helping to minimise crime and catch offenders who guilty of profiting from these crimes, and to contact the team, visit We Don't Buy Crime | Gwent Police.