The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show that acquisitive crime including robbery, theft and burglary fell across Gwent in the year between September 2020 and September 2021.

There was a 19 per cent fall in residential burglary, while theft offences fell by 18 per cent and robbery two per cent.

The figures show that Gwent continues to have one of the lowest levels of recorded crime in the UK.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “These figures are very reassuring. While the pandemic has had a role to play, this significant reduction in acquisitive crime is also the result of proactive policing from Gwent Police, with initiatives such as We Don’t Buy Crime specifically targeting crime in our communities.

“Keeping our residents safe is a key priority for my term as commissioner and these latest figures from the ONS show that we are now seeing the benefits of long-term partnership work in our communities.”

Deputy Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman said: “Offences such as burglary, robbery and theft often have a real impact on the people living our communities.

“It can be traumatic when a personal possession is taken from someone, especially if it has a high sentimental value.

“These crimes can often invade a person’s sense of privacy, affecting their feelings of safety for a long period of time.

“It is always encouraging to see a drop of these particular crime types within Gwent.

“We’re taking positive steps to reduce these crimes with initiatives such as We Don’t Buy Crime, reuniting owners with their possessions and seeking to bring those responsible for these offences before the courts.”

The figures also show that all policing areas across the UK reported an increase in fraud for the period.

Jeff Cuthbert said: “Criminals have taken advantage of the increased time that people spent online during the pandemic and it is unsurprising that we have seen a rise in fraud.

“I would urge all residents to be careful online, only purchase items from trusted sources, and always check before clicking on links sent via text or email.”

If you have been a victim of fraud, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.