AN INSPECTOR is urging people to not put themselves at risk when confronting criminals.

Inspector Steve Owens, of the South Flintshire policing team, has praised 'commendable' actions following a recent theft, however is encouraging people to not put themselves at risk.

This comes after a mini digger was stolen from Bretton Lane in Bretton.

He told the Leader: "A property was in the middle of a barn conversion.

"A neighbour has reported a white transit van has arrived on the site and two males have attended to move the mini digger into the van.

"They were challenged by the neighbour and they said they had been instructed by the person doing the work, to remove the digger.

"The neighbour responded by ringing the owner of the development to clarify the story and the two males have then jumped in the van and made off towards the A55.

"They recorded the registration number which identified the keeper and insured parties to an address in Liverpool.

"This now forms part of an active investigation."

Mr Owens said if people do not feel comfortable with approaching people they see stealing, they can record as much information as possible and then report it to the police.

He added: "The neighbours actions clearly prevented further thefts of several thousand pounds worth of equipment and their actions are commendable.

"What we would say is, we wouldn't want you to put yourself at risk by having a conversation of confrontation.

"If people don't feel wholly comfortable with that then we would ask to record as much detail as you can and we will pick it up. That course of action isn't for everyone."

Anyone with information or concerns can contact North Wales Police on 101 or via the live webchat service.