‘Don’t make it easy for criminals’: Surge in opportunistic theft in Limerick prompts garda warning

LIMERICK gardai have warned motorists and shoppers to take extra precautions in the run-up to Christmas following a noticeable rise in opportunistic thefts.

Sergeant Natasha Walsh, Henry Street Garda Station said:

"The year has absolutely flown, this time of year is very exciting as Christmas lights are being turned on and there’s a great buzz around the town. Unfortunately, this time of year brings a lot of opportunistic thefts, we are seeing an increase of handbags being stolen from vehicles stuck in traffic."

"It’s really important that people lock their car doors when driving, you are in a really difficult situation if someone opens your door and steals your handbag when you are in charge of a vehicle. A small change in behaviour will make a huge difference here."

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Sgt Walsh added: "If people are heading out for a bit of a festive shopping spree it’s common to want to offload the bags throughout the day. I can’t stress enough how important it is to put these items out of sight in the boot."

"People come in to Limerick every day and throw their bags in the car without an incident, I’m not trying to scare anyone, but these little steps build habits and protect your property."

The Limerick garda said it’s important to lock up and light up all year around, but that this time of year can be particularly devastating to be a victim of a burglary.

"People are saving all year to make Christmas special, so don’t make it easy for criminals to steal your hard earned gifts. Ensure that your doors and windows are locked even when you are home. A good idea is to look into your house from the outside, whether through your windows or your letter box, see what an opportunistic burglar might see and start from there."

Sgt Walsh concluded: "Tuck all valuables out of sight – if they can’t find it, then they can’t steal it! Remember that your house alarm isn’t an expensive ornament, it exists to keep you and your property safe, turn it on! You have paid for it, so get the benefit out of it."