'Just a quick snatch and run': Limerick shoppers targeted in car park thefts

TWO women have been targeted in separate car park thefts in Limerick city, as Gardaí warned that opportunistic thieves are taking advantage of unlocked cars and distracted shoppers.

Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer Henry Street Garda Station said:

"Last Thursday, 30th of October, between 7.30pm and 8pm, a woman was putting shopping into the boot of her car at a car park of a retailers on the Childers Road."

"Another woman approached her to say she’d seen a man open the front passenger door and take the victim’s handbag before fleeing."

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Another theft occurred in a retailer car park on the Ennis Road last Friday, Halloween.

Sgt O'Halloran added: "On the 31st of October, last Friday gone, around 9am, a woman in her seventies was sitting in her vehicle in a retailer car park on the Ennis Road in Limerick when a thief suddenly opened the door, grabbed her purse, and ran off - just a quick snatch and run."

Gardaí at Mayorstone and Henry Street are investigating both incidents and reviewing CCTV footage from both incidents. If anyone has any information in relation to either of these thefts, contact your local Gardai or indeed Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.

The local crime prevention officer said these are classic examples of opportunistic theft. "It only takes a few seconds for someone to act when a car is unlocked or a bag is left visible."

Sgt O'Halloran issued the following tips:

Always lock your doors, even if you’re sitting inside or standing next to the car.

Never leave handbags, purses, or phones visible on seats — put them in the boot before you leave the car.

Be aware of your surroundings, especially if someone is loitering nearby or trying to distract you.

And if you see something suspicious, don’t ignore it — contact Gardaí straight away – 999 / 112 in case or emergency or contact your local Gardai or non urgent matters.

Sgt O'Halloran concluded: "It’s often the simplest habits — locking the car and staying alert — that help prevent these crimes, particularly as we approach the lead into busy shopping and Christmas season."