04 February 2009
Gwent Police has targeted car thieves and people who deal in stolen goods since the beginning of January as part of Operation Reunite. The operation was organised to combat a recent rise in thefts from vehicles and to find stolen goods, and return them to their rightful owners.
The operation has involved extra officers and specialist units, who have number plate recognition equipment, being deployed to identified hotspots. Officers have also deployed 'capture cars' (vehicles with goods inside them which attract thieves and record them breaking in) in specific areas.
Commenting on the results of the operation Detective Inspector Peter Jones said:
"Since the operation began we have seen a 12% decrease in car crime in Gwent, and the results of the operation have been so encouraging our activities will continue for the foreseeable future.
During this time we will continue to target car thieves and people who deal in stolen goods using information and intelligence from our investigations to date. People who are involved in this kind of criminality can expect a visit from Gwent Police sooner rather than later. "
The operation has so far resulted in 94 arrest/interviews, 72 cars being seized and a considerable amount of stolen property including cars, a number of 'sat nav' systems, jewellery, mobile phones, clothing, a quad bike and a motorbike being recovered.
In addition officers have recovered drugs, and a significant amount of cash.
The arrests have been for a number of offences which included theft from unattended motor vehicles, theft of motor vehicles, vehicle interference (including damage), money laundering, driving whilst unfit, and driving whilst disqualified.
Operation Reunite is making our communities safer and I would encourage anyone who has any information about criminal activity in their area to contact Gwent Police on 01633 83811 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
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