A TEENAGER has been arrested following a spate of thefts from cars and vans across Penarth and Dinas Powys.

The 17 year-old male was arrested on Wednesday, 3 February, 2016 and has been released in police bail until later this month.

Police are urging owners of cars and vans to be vigilant following the string of break-ins which occurred in a single night on February 2, 2016.

Thousands of pounds worth of tools and personal items such as sat navs and CDs have been stolen in several separate incidents which have occurred across the area.

Break-ins were reported in St David’s Avenue and Harlech Drive, in Dinas Powys, and in Queens Road, Cliff Street, John Street and Bramble Rise in Penarth.

People are urged to take on the following advice.

Be vigilant and investigate safely suspicious noises or behaviour, try to park in secure, private places such as driveways or garage and in well lit areas, try to prevent easy access to doors of vehicles and, wherever possible, take valuable tools indoors overnight or when vehicles are unattended for long periods of time.

Inspector Rob Miles, said: "We have made an arrest and inquiries are ongoing in respect of that.

"We have increased night-time patrols in these areas and urge people to safeguard their property as best they can.

"Securing your vehicle and taking simple measures can drastically minimise the chance of your vehicle being targeted."

Anyone who has information about any of the incidents is urged to contact South Wales Police via 101 or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.