The people of the Galliagh in Derry have been warned to be vigilant after an increase in the number of burglaries and thefts from cars and garden sheds in the area.
The warning comes from Sinn Fein Cllr Elisha McCallion who said while police were “working to the resolve the problem,” the best way to beat the thieves was for residents to responsibility for their own properties.
Cllr McCallion said: “I am aware that the number of thefts from cars, garden sheds and homes has been on the increase in recent weeks so I would appeal to the local community to be extra vigilant.
“I have spoken to the local PSNI commander and he has assured me that they are working to resolve the problem, however the best way to defeat these thieves is to take responsibility for your own property.
“I would ask people to make sure that their sheds are kept locked with a strong lock and that their cars are locked and no goods are left visible.”
“I would also advise people to get into a routine of locking up their home when going out and if going away for a few days to ask a neighbour to keep an eye out on the house.”
Cllr McCallion said there was crime prevention information available from both local community groups and the PSNI and I she encouraged people to avail of this information.
She added: “If you have been a victim of these crimes or living in fear of it there is groups that can offer crime prevention visits to your home.
“If people want to avail of this service they can contact the local Sinn Féin centre or community group to arrange a visit.”
Cllr McCallion concluded: “In the meanwhile if people see someone acting suspiciously around homes they should phone the PSNI immediately.”
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