POLICE in Penarth are warning Ford car owners to be vigilant, after a number of car stereos were stolen.

Ten Ford Focus cars were broken into in the Cogan area overnight between Sunday, May 8 and Monday, May 9.

In all the incidents, the nearside front window was smashed, and the CD/radio targeted.

Three suspects were disturbed by a witness at around 12.20am on Monday in Harriet Street. One was wearing a grey hooded top and two were in black jackets.

There have also been similar thefts in the Barry area in recent days.

Police believe the spate of thefts is being fuelled by an urban myth that the radios contain an electronic chip that can decode satellite television receivers.

Penarth Neighbourhood Inspector Chris Owen said: “I wish to reassure the community that we are doing all we can by investigating these crimes, and extra patrols are being carried out in the affected areas.

“We have seen similar spates previously which are linked to an urban myth about the radios containing a special microchip. Experts have concluded that the microchip cannot be used in this way and the thieves are wasting their time.

“We need information about who is responsible for stealing these radios and where they are selling them,” he added.

“They are probably offering these radios for sale cheaply, and we would ask anyone who is offered a cheap Ford radio to decline and call us immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Penarth police station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.