Luxury cars have been targeted by thieves in a night of car thefts in an affluent neighbourhood in Cardiff. The incident saw three Land Rovers stolen within a mile radius of each other in Whitchurch, with the thefts occurring between January 30 and 31. The stolen vehicles were taken from outside properties at Station Road, Heol Don, and Velindre Road, showcasing a concerning trend of car crime in the area.
According to South Wales Police, there has been a noticeable increase in car crime across Cardiff, particularly in neighbourhoods like Fairwater which includes Whitchurch and Llandaff North. In January, the most stolen vehicle makes in the Cardiff and Vale areas were 27 Fords, five Land Rovers, and four Volkswagens. Ford models such as Fiesta, Transit, and Ecosport were among the most targeted by thieves, highlighting a specific trend in vehicle theft.
Inspector Gerallt Hughes from South Wales Police acknowledged the impact of car crime on victims, expressing understanding of the distress, cost, and inconvenience it causes. The police force is actively working to identify those responsible for the thefts and has increased patrols in the affected areas. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard their vehicles from theft.
Aside from stolen vehicles, there has also been a rise in thefts from cars and vans in Cardiff. Police advised residents to ensure their vehicles are locked, remove any valuable items, and park in well-lit areas covered by CCTV. These measures can act as deterrents to criminals and aid in crime detection. Additionally, utilising location-tracking apps like What3words can help pinpoint the exact whereabouts of a vehicle if stolen.
The Office for National Statistics reported a 15-year high in car crime in the UK, indicating a concerning trend nationwide. RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis highlighted the challenges faced in combating car theft, with a daily average of 356 vehicles being stolen. The cat-and-mouse game between vehicle manufacturers improving security systems and thieves finding ways to bypass them underscores the need for collaborative efforts to address the issue.
In response to the rising car crime, there are calls for government intervention to tackle the challenges posed by vehicle theft. Suggestions include re-establishing a dedicated vehicle theft taskforce or engaging closely with law enforcement agencies, manufacturers, and the insurance industry to devise effective strategies. Addressing car crime requires a multifaceted approach that combines technological advancements, law enforcement efforts, and public vigilance to safeguard against theft.
Residents in Cardiff are urged to stay informed and report any suspicious activities to the authorities to help combat car crime in the area. By working together with law enforcement agencies and implementing preventive measures, communities can reduce the incidence of vehicle thefts and create a safer environment for all. As car theft continues to pose a threat to vehicle owners, staying vigilant and proactive is crucial in protecting against such criminal activities.