THREE men have been arrested following a series of car thefts and burglaries, it has been confirmed.

A number of cars – in Rogerstone and Allt-Yr-Yn in Newport – were stolen by "opportunist" thieves yesterday while their owners left engines running to help defrost windows, as the Argus reported yesterday.

And Gwent Police have now confirmed that a 37-year-old man from the Merthyr Tydfil area, a 28-year-old man from the Abertillery area, and a 36-year-old man from the Risca area have all been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary and other offences.

MORE NEWS: New hotel to open next month in former Yates' building in Newport city centre

Two vehicles - a grey Audi A4 and a blue BMW - were stolen from Oak Tree Drive and Spitfire Road, Rogerstone. They were later discovered.

And in Allt-yr-yn, a silver Volkswagen Golf was taken from a driveway on Field Park Road. The car's keys were stolen from the property, which had been left unlocked.

MORE NEWS: Concerns raised for welfare of missing 61-year-old from Monmouthshire

Inspector Jason Williams, of Newport West Neighbourhood Policing team, warned people to remain vigilant.

He said: "It is vital that members of the public take necessary precautions in order to protect themselves and their property from burglary and theft.

"In recent weeks, we have received reports of opportunist thieves targeting homes in and around Rogerstone, and either stealing unlocked and unattended cars outside homes, or stealing car keys and other valuables which are on show or not properly secured in homes, before leaving the address in the victim's vehicle.

"In yesterday's incidents, cars were left unlocked while being defrosted. Please do not put yourselves and your property at risk, remain vigilant and make sure that any suspicious activity is reported to us."

Investigations are ongoing and if anyone has information they are encouraged to contact Gwent Police on 101, quoting reference 1900018802. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or direct message on Facebook or Twitter.