Inspector issues vehicle safety advice following spate of vehicle thefts
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Gwent officers are advising vehicle owners – particularly those who own cars with keyless entry systems – to remain vigilant following a number of thefts in Torfaen recently.
Between 5 August and 8 August, Gwent Police received five reports of theft, with Ford Fiesta STs and Eco Sports, and Range Rover Evoques among those stolen.
Inspector Lee Stachow, Torfaen’s neighbourhood policing lead, said:
“Opportunistic thieves can use software to pick up the signal emitted by keyless entry systems and, ultimately, gain entry to the car without actually having the key.
“This can be done quickly – sometimes within a matter of minutes – and can be done right outside our houses, so it’s important we all take some preventative steps to protect our vehicles.
“The first step is to keep your key fob away from doors and windows, preferably in a signal-blocking pouch or faraday bag, to stop thieves ‘grabbing’ the signal from outside.
“You can also sometimes turn off the fob’s wireless signal when not in use, contact your car dealer to check your vehicle’s software is up-to-date and use a steering wheel lock to add that extra layer of security.”
Keeping your car safe | some crime prevention tips
- Mechanical steering locks, driveway posts, wheel clamps and trackers are effective ways of protecting vehicles and deterring thieves.
- Park vehicles in a garage or on a driveway.
- Park in areas that are well-lit and avoid areas which are in cover of darkness or obscured from any public view.
- Never leave any personal items on show inside the vehicle.
- Make sure to keep the inside of your vehicle clear of clutter, and hide electrical items like sat navs and mobile phones.
- Always ensure unattended vehicles are locked.
- Get your car’s windows etched. Etching the last seven digits of your vehicle identity number (or registration) onto the windows, headlights and mirrors means anybody who tries to alter your vehicle’s identity will have a tough job.
- Be vigilant and report suspicious behaviour.
Can you help?
Anyone with any information on the recent thefts can call us on 101 or send us a direct message via Facebook or X.
You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
