Investigation after spate of attempted break-ins at homes

POLICE are investigating a spate of attempted break-ins, including reports that a man was threatened with a kitchen knife.

Residents in parts of Newport have reported seeing a man trying to get into houses and gardens in recent days.

The man is described by police as 5ft 10in, thin and in his early 20s.

Paul James Mitchell, who lives in Somerton Park, said he confronted a man matching the suspect’s description on Wednesday evening, and said he then had a knife pulled on him.

“A neighbour whose house he went in is a very good friend. She described him to me and when I saw him I called him and he started to run,” he said.

“I chased him around a couple of back lanes in my area, he stopped and pulled a short black-handled knife from his side, which looked to me like a kitchen knife.

“He was a youngster and I’m no spring chicken so he was away.”

Another resident, who didn’t wish to be named, said her mother’s neighbour in Fforest Glade had had her handbag and cash stolen after a man got into her house earlier this week, but that the incident had not yet been reported to the police.

Ryan Duggan lives in St Julians and said residents had been living in fear for the past week.

“Everyone is really on edge at the moment. Not only is this guy breaking in and trying to take things, but there’s the potential of spreading coronavirus from touching things in and around the property. These are uncertain times for everyone due to job losses and lack of income coming in for some families, they should not have to worry about their safety in their own homes.”

A statement from Gwent Police said: “Officers are appealing for information following reports of suspicious activity, including reports of a man trying to enter properties in the Somerton, St Julians and Beechwood areas of Newport this week.

“As part of our investigation, we are looking to identify the person in these CCTV images, as officers believe he may be able to help us with our inquiries.

“The man is described as 5ft 10in, of a thin build and in his early twenties.

“Officers are investigating and asking anyone with any information regarding these incidents to please contact Gwent Police on 101.

“Alternatively, you can DM our Facebook or Twitter pages, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Newport East Inspector Martin Cawley said: “These sorts of reports are obviously very concerning for local residents. We are now implementing a variety of patrol methods to assist us in our investigation. I would advise any concerned residents to please report any suspicious activity, on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

“I’d like to thank those who have already been in touch and reported information concerning these incidents to us.”