Police are warning residents to be on their guard after thieves broke into a van in Wrexham and stole items belonging to the council.

A Wrexham Council hi-vis jacket, an identity card, phone and a key fob were stolen from a transit van in Darby Road Southsea at around 10.15pm last night. (September 25)

Three men, one wearing a balaclava, were seen removing property from the van and making off in a black Renault Clio which was later recovered at an address on Ruthin Road.

Inspector Steve Owens said: “The key fob has been deactivated and cannot access any council property. However, I would urge people who receive cold calls from anyone claiming to work for the council or utility companies to be on their guard and to thoroughly check identity cards and not to simply accept that someone wearing a hi-vis jacket is legitimate.

“Authentic council or utility staff will not mind you calling the council or their company to check. If in any doubt do not let anyone into your property and report any suspicious activity to the police.”

Anyone with information about this crime should contact north-wales.police.uk/contact/live-chat-support quoting reference W137271.