Derry City Crime Prevention Officer Mandy Monteith has confirmed that a number of incidents that occurred during hours of darkness have been reported in recent days.
These had included vehicles being entered and ransacked as reported on Derry Daily earlier.
She said: “Cars should always be locked and all valuables should be removed, even if it is parked close to your home or in your own driveway.
“Leaving valuables, such as your handbag, wallet, laptop, phone or cash on view in your vehicle is like an open invitation to opportunist thieves. If they see something valuable on view, they will simply try to get it.
“Taking just a few moments can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime. Improved car security features such as alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices can also help protect your vehicle and your valuables.
“We would urge the public to promptly report all suspicious activity they notice near vehicles, or car alarms that have been activated, as this will help to deter and help us to detect those involved in this type of crime.”
“Over the weekend, police received reports of cars being targeted at Thornhill Park, Synge Court and Culmore Road.”
Information can be given on the police non-emergency number, 101, or by calling the Crimestoppers Charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
