Gwent Police have urged Range Rover owners in Blaenau Gwent to stay alert after a string of reports that thieves are specifically targeting the vehicles.

A force spokesperson confirmed that "Range Rover models are being targeted by thieves" and called on drivers to take precautions to safeguard their cars. The spokesperson said: "Help protect your vehicle by taking a few simple precautions," adding that anyone who sees or hears anything suspicious should contact Gwent Police on 101 or 999.

As part of the appeal, officers set out a series of recommended steps for owners. Drivers are being told to double-check their vehicle is locked before walking away from it and, where possible, to park in a locked garage or a well-lit, secure spot. Police also advised keeping car keys well away from front doors and windows, since thieves have been known to exploit signals from keyless entry fobs, and recommended using a Faraday pouch to block such signals.

Owners were further urged not to leave valuables or documents visible or accessible inside their vehicles. Gwent Police also encouraged drivers to make full use of any built-in security technology in their cars and to ensure onboard software is kept up to date, since outdated systems can leave vehicles more vulnerable to tech-savvy criminals. Additional measures suggested include fitting CCTV or a video doorbell at home, installing a tracker device, and using a sturdy, good-quality disc lock for extra protection.

The warning comes after a number of vehicle thefts in the wider Gwent area in recent months. In July, police in neighbouring Caerphilly recovered a stolen Range Rover along with a trailer in Maescymmer, and in August a stolen Range Rover Evoque was recovered in the Gilfach area. Just last week, thirteen Nissan Juke cars were reported stolen in a spate of thefts across Caerphilly, highlighting a broader pattern of vehicle crime across the region.

In response, Gwent Police said patrols have been stepped up in affected areas, and officers are continuing to urge residents to remain vigilant. The force has reiterated that members of the public who notice anything unusual or suspicious near vehicles should report it immediately, stressing that early reports can help police respond quickly and potentially prevent thefts or recover stolen cars before they are taken out of the area.

Source: South Wales Argus

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