Fish and microchips to halt theft

The koi carp each have unique markings on their bodies

Owners of valuable koi carp have been advised to consider fitting them with microchips after dozens were stolen in a spate of thefts.

The fish, which can be worth up to £5,000, have been taken from garden ponds in the Vale of Glamorgan.

South Wales Police warned owners to ensure they had adequate security.

Pc Dick Collins said: "Technology today means that you can now microchip your fish in the same way that you can have your cat and dog chipped."

He said it seemed that koi carp in particular were being targeted.

"These fish can be very expensive, but they are also pets and losing them can be a traumatic event," he added.

"It would be wise therefore to consider what security measures you have in place in your garden to protect your fish."

He advised owners to photograph their fish, which each have unique markings, to enable them to be identified.

Microchipping meant a device about the size of a grain of rice was inserted into the koi carp, he added.

"The chip would contain information about the owner, and can be read by a scanner being placed over the fish."

Anyone with any information about the thefts is asked to contact South Wales Police on 01656 655555.