Newport residents have called for a stronger response to city-centre crime after five businesses were targeted over seven days.

The incidents affected Quarters Coffee, Beam Sports & Schoolwear and Coffee at 26, as well as Xclusive Jewellers and The Coffee Shop. They occurred from August 18 to August 25. More than 80 comments followed reports of the break-ins, and several readers asked for officers to be more visible both in daytime and during the early hours.

Some contributors said they felt reluctant or unsafe when visiting central Newport. Others argued that repeat offending and decisions made after suspects are arrested also required attention. Concern was also expressed for owners and employees left to manage damage and disruption.

Operation Krypton was already running when the break-ins occurred. Gwent Police said its summer work had produced more than 160 arrests and was continuing to tackle offending and anti-social behaviour. Superintendent Esyr Jones had previously recognised the effect a burglary can have on retailers and the livelihoods of their owners.

The city council said £350,000 had gone into safety work in central Newport, including better CCTV. Its public protection team was continuing to co-operate with businesses and local partnerships including Safer Newport, PubWatch and Newport Now.

The comments indicate that residents still want stronger reassurance, more foot patrols and effective action against repeat offenders despite the measures already announced by police and the council.