Crackdown on callous distraction burglars

Last year, 17 people across Monmouthshire and Torfaen fell prey to doorstep con men pretending to be utilities board officials.

It is also now being revealed that burglars have posed as bogus police officers in Torfaen during the last three months.

Seventy cameras are being made available to former victims and those believed to be at high risk of distraction burglaries by a Communities Safety Partnership in a Monmouthshire and Torfaen funded initiative.

Police say the cameras will be placed in discreet but strategic positions in homes and be able to record 24 hours a day.

Superintendent Jon Burley said: "The cameras have been in use in forces across the country for more than two years with a good success rate. The feedback we have had locally has been positive.

"The cameras, as well as acting as a deterrent and as a vital part of evidence against the offender, will also act as reassurance to the householder.

"The offenders tend to be travelling criminals. Often they steal cash or jewellery - items with great sentimental value, things like wedding rings.

"Often the impact on the victim is incalculable because the items are things they have treasured throughout their life.

"We have no evidence that someone has died as a result of these crimes but some have passed away a short time after. It does have a profound effect."

He said some bogus callers targeting Torfaen during the last three months had pretended to be police officers.

David Jeremiah, Torfaen council's community safety manager, said: "Distraction burglars target the most vulnerable members of our communities.

"It is a cruel crime which we all need to work together to tackle. These cameras will help those who have been affected and will allow potential victims to feel safer in their homes.

"They will be a useful weapon in gathering evidence to prosecute those callous people who carry out these crimes."