Business crime across Dyfed-Powys is taken seriously by the police, according to local companies.

More than 70 per cent of 800 enterprise leaders surveyed in the region also said the police give a satisfactory service and do a good job dealing with business crime.

However, less than 30 per cent were aware of Action Fraud, the UK’s central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime.

Police and Crime Commissioner Christopher Salmon said: “I’m delighted that bosses think the police tackle business crime in Dyfed-Powys.

“My priority is to keep business and the public safe. I listen to them when I want to know how police are getting on. There’s more to do, but this is a great start.”

Robert Lloyd-Griffiths, Wales regional director of the Institute of Directors, said: “Business leaders who I speak to are unwavering in their support of the police and are appreciative of the difficult job they have to do.

“Crime in general - and business crime in particular - is naturally of particular concern to the business community and anything business leaders can do collectively or individually to combat this is welcomed.

”We support the Commissioner’s initiative and look forward to working with the police to ensure continued success.”

In England and Wales in 2014, more than 4.1 million crimes affected the wholesale and retail sector alone. In the five months up to August last year, 966 crimes were recorded with a Dyfed-Powys business address as the victim.

The region has more than 25,700 enterprises, but detailed crime statistics for them do not exist.

The Commissioner’s survey was carried out by Swansea-based research company ORS in January and February.

He said: “I want to cut the number of offences which hinder enterprise. Business crime is an untold story here; its cost is unknown, so I thank business people for being forthcoming.

“The survey has produced much data. I will study this carefully before making recommendations.”