Police have been forced to put on extra patrols after a spate of similar burglaries hit the Abergavenny area last month.

Thieves targeting outbuildings and sheds racked-up six burglaries in August, prompting police to increase patrols in the areas hit.

Officers from the Gwent force have issued a reminder to residents to keep their valuables and property secure at all times following the rise in incidents.

Throughout August, the culprits managed a mini-wave of similar crimes, which police say are opportunistic in nature.

In one incident around August 6, thieves smashed a padlock and caused damaged to a garden shed at a Brunant Road address in Clydach, before leaving the area empty-handed.

Three days later, another attempted break-in at a Poplar’s Close address, Mardy, was reported to police by a concerned resident.

In another incident, thieves broke into an outbuilding at Fforest Coal Pit, Abergavenny, making off with canisters of red diesel - used in agriculture - on August 14.

The spate of burglaries continued when three more outbuildings were burgled on Cross Street, Abergavenny between August 11 and 18. Thieves stole lead from roofs, and scaffolding poles.

Police are also investigating another break-in after high-value gardening equipment was stolen from a shed on Monmouth Road, Abergavenny on August 29.

A resident also reported to police after their garden shed was burgled in the Llanvapley area sometime between August 16 to 29. Thieves stole a number of tools.

Inspector Arwel Hicks, of Gwent Police, said, “We are currently investigating each reported crime, and are asking residents to secure their property as best they can.

“Extra patrols have now been put in place following this spate of break-ins in the Monmouthshire area.

“Despite this, I also want to remind residents to double-check their security by locking all windows and doors, and not to take any chances by leaving outbuildings insecure,” he said.

Inspector Hicks said his officers are working with local residents. He encouraged locals to report anything they may feel is relevant.

“We will continue to monitor crimes, incidents and trends in the area. We rely on the community to report incidents to us and tell us of any concerns.

“This will help us make sure we correctly target our resources to ensure our communities are kept as safe as possible and feel assured.

“Please report any suspicious activity immediately by calling police on 101, or if you see a crime taking place, call 999,” he said.

Gwent Police have said that most burglary is committed without planning, as thieves take an opportunity that is presented to them to commit crimes. Residents can combat this by ensuring they secure their property at all times.

Residents are advised to close and lock all doors and windows when away from the home for even a few minutes.

Officers also suggest leaving a light on, if it’s likely to be dark by the return home. Residents can even install automatic light-switch timers which give the impression of an occupied property.

Leaving high-value items, including car keys out of view of windows and letterboxes is also recommended, as well as marking property with a specialist UV pen.

A police spokeswoman said, “Residents are reminded to ensure that their garages and sheds are kept locked and secure at all times, and that any items not in use are stored away securely and out of sight.

“If you have any information relating to these incidents, please call police.”

The Gwent Police website offers further information, including common pitfalls, and advice on burglar alarms and other anti-crime measures.

For more information on how to keep your property secure, please visit www.gwent.police.uk