Investigations launched after two Limerick construction sites are targeted just days apart
In many cases like these, thieves often sell on the tools after stealing them, for financial gain
INVESTIGATIONS are underway in Limerick following reports of thefts from two construction sites just days apart.
According to gardai, the first offence occurred in Castletroy overnight between Tuesday, October 13 and Wednesday, October 14.
In this case, a container was broken into, where a generator and other tools were stolen as a result. It is understood that the lock on the container was forced open, which is how the suspect, or suspects, gained entry.
Following this, a second theft report was made to gardai on Thursday, October 15, regarding a construction site in the city centre.
Also taking place overnight, containers were broken into and tools, described as being "valuable," were taken from the site, located at Barrington Street.
Commenting on the offences, which can lead to major disruption of ongoing construction work, Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer at Henry Street Garda Station, said these types of sites have also “been targeted” in the past.
Giving advice on how to prevent such thefts, Sgt O’Halloran advised that “contractors should ensure that containers are fitted with good-quality locks, that tools are secured out of sight and that equipment is removed from the site overnight where possible.
“CCTV, security lighting and alarms can also provide an added layer of protection.”
She said that ensuring tools are marked in some way also makes them “less attractive to thieves and easier to trace” should an incident arise, along with keeping a record of their serial numbers.
In many cases like these, thieves often sell on the tools after stealing them, for financial gain.
The Crime Prevention Officer continued: “As a purchaser, if you’re offered tools at a ‘too good to be true’ price, refuse to buy and report the incident to your local Garda station.
“As long as there is demand for stolen goods, theft will continue. Buying stolen goods fuels this type of crime and causes real financial loss to tradespeople.
“Unfortunately, construction tools remain attractive to thieves because they can be easily transported and resold,” Sgt O’Halloran concluded.