Operation Timmia update

Three people have admitted their part in a spate of burglaries which have blighted the communities of Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot during the last year.

William (Billy) Joyce, 23, of Millstream Way, John Connors, 18, of Rhossilli Avenue, Cardiff, and a 16-year-old who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday, January 15^th, charged with five counts of burglary and one count of vehicle theft.

The three were remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Newport Crown Court on February 8th.

The convictions came on the same day as a large-scale operation took place at 16 addresses in Swansea.

Both the raids and the recent court case relate to the ongoing Operation Timmia, which has been dedicated to investigating high-value burglaries across the area.

Officers have been conducting searches at the warrant locations, and have so far recovered significant amounts of cash and jewellery, and seized caravans and a cannabis cultivation.

Six people were arrested during the warrants on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary, while a seventh person was arrested the following day.

While the complex investigation continues, all those arrested are now on bail, with stringent conditions in place.

Five outstanding suspects – Daniel Casey, 27; Terrence Casey, 19; Michael Casey, 18; Patrick Joyce, 20; and Christopher Harty, 18 – are still being sought by South Wales Police.

Superintendent Cath Larkman said: “While this week’s convictions, arrests and charges are significant, the investigation in to this extremely concerning spate of criminality remains ongoing and is very much a priority for the dedicated Op Timmia Team. We’re continuing to work closely with a range of partners including the local authority, Trading Standards, CPS, Department of Work & Pensions and HMRC.

“We have been overwhelmed with messages of support from the community following the action that we have taken and are grateful for all the ongoing support and cooperation. Public safety has always been a paramount concern for this investigation, particularly given the escalation in violence that was occurring when offenders were challenged or interrupted.

“I want to make it clear that there will be no avenue left uncovered during this complex investigation.”

Detectives are also continuing to work to trace the rightful owners of some of the recovered items, which include rings and watches.

Detective Inspector Dave Peart said: “Operation Timmia is a large and complex investigation and remains ongoing.  We are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying items of value, believed stolen and subsequently recovered during the process of this enquiry.

“We are continuing to work with the community and with forces across the country to locate the remaining suspects and enquiries relating to those currently on bail are also progressing.  We are linking closely with the CPS and will be relentless in identifying those responsible and bringing them to justice”.

Anyone who believes any of the items belong to them is asked to contact 101, quoting ‘Operation Timmia’, or the occurrence number 1800300011.

Anyone with any information on the whereabouts of the outstanding suspects is also urged to contact the same number. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.