New data suggests Mid and West Wales have seen some of the biggest increases in home break-ins in the UK
The data, from the Office of National Statistics, covered the 12 months to December 2024.
It shows a mixed national picture: although burglary rates overall continue a slow decline, certain localities have seen sharp spikes in reported home break-ins.
Looking at the worst hit areas in England and Wales, Wales dominated the top 10, Powys topped this list as the most unsafe area based on home break ins with reports up by a staggering 81%. Ceredigion’s reports were up by 60% placing them fourth, and Carmarthenshire was eighth with a 49% surge.
RankAreaPercentage Rise in Residential Burglaries 20241Powys81.40%2Rugby68.00%3North Norfolk65.00%4Ceredigion60.30%5Staffordshire Moorlands52.00%6South Devon and Dartmoor51.40%7Lancaster50.40%8Carmarthenshire49.80%9Mid Sussex47.80%10Fylde44.70%
Nationally, burglary continues its long-term decline, with residential break-ins across England and Wales falling by 3.5% in the year ending December 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Swansea Bay News spoke to Dyfed Powys Police about the findings, with the force saying there was an error with the ONS figures, and while Powys has still seen a big increase it takes them off the top spot and takes Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion out of the top 10.
A spokesperson from Dyfed Powys Police said: “While it is difficult to comment on the exact reason for the increase in reports of burglaries, we are aware of national reporting issues due to our transition to a new crime system in 2023 which led to the figures being more than they should be in 2024.
“Although burglaries were recorded in 2023, they were not all attributed to individual areas and instead were categorised as unknown- this showed each area to be lower in 2023 than they actually were and therefore a bigger increase was seen in 2024. The amended figures are in the below table.
BCU/Year20232024% DifferenceCarmarthenshire30137825.58%Ceredigion13216726.51%Pembrokeshire2072091%Powys17627355.11%Unassigned36100%Total819103326.12%
“Measures have been taken to correct the figures however this may not be reflected in the published ONS data.
“However, we acknowledge the significant impact that crimes of this nature have on victims and the worry it can cause to the wider community.
“Burglary is an incredibly invasive crime which we know has a significant impact on victims and this is why in March 2023, police forces across England and Wales implemented a new attendance policy to ensure police attendance at every reported residential dwelling burglary.
“Our officers are committed to attending and investigating these reports and we urge the public to continue reporting instances to us.
“Crime prevention and security advice can be found on our website : Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Dyfed-Powys Police”
Speaking on the findings, Craig Morgan from SJL who analysed the ONS data said: “It’s deeply troubling to see such a sharp rise in home break-ins across parts of Wales. When Powys tops the list with an 81% increase, it’s not just a statistic, it’s a signal that many families are feeling more vulnerable in their own homes.
“While overall burglary rates may be declining nationally, these regional spikes expose a worrying disparity in how communities are being impacted. It’s clear we can’t afford to be complacent.
“More targeted support, better prevention strategies, and real accountability in law enforcement are urgently needed in the hardest-hit areas.”
Craig then went on to share his top tips to prevent home break ins.
- Upgrade Your Locks
“Ensure all external doors have high-quality deadbolt locks. Consider anti-snap cylinders and ensure window locks are fitted and used regularly.”
- Install Motion-Activated Lighting
“Outdoor sensor lights around entrances, pathways, and dark corners act as strong deterrents for would-be intruders.”
- Use Smart Security Technology
“Invest in smart home security systems—doorbell cameras, alarms, and remote monitoring apps allow you to monitor your home in real-time and alert authorities quickly.”
- Don’t Overlook Home Insurance
“Even with strong security measures, break-ins can still happen. Having the right home insurance, including contents cover, ensures you’re financially protected if valuables are stolen, or property is damaged. Review your policy regularly to make sure it reflects the true value of your belongings. Underinsurance is more common than many realise.” - Avoid Advertising Your Absence
“Don’t post holiday plans on social media and use timer switches for lights and radios to give the impression someone’s home, even when you’re away.”
#burglary #Carmarthenshire #Ceredigion #DyfedPowysPolice #Powys
