Write a commentPolice in Newry are appealing for information following a creeper burglary on Dromantine Road.
Shortly before 3pm on Sunday, 17 February, entry was forced to a house and the keys of a gold Mercedes E220 taken. A Mercedes car was subsequently taken from the same address. It was seen being driven off at speed and is believed to gave been in convoy with a gold coloured Astra car.
Police are appealing to anyone who observed either car in the local area on Sunday or anyone who has information in relation to the whereabouts of the Mercedes car to contact them in Newry on 0845 600 8000. If you prefer to provide information without giving your details you can contact the independent Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police would advise all householders to take steps to protect their property from theft.
Firstly, you should review your security. If your doors aren't secure, neither is your house. Make sure your doors are strong enough for the job, and fit mortise deadlocks, door chains and viewers and make use of them, when you receive an unexpected knock at the door.
Keys should not be left hanging in the back of doors, take them out and put them somewhere out of sight. Thieves will check for this and, if your keys are hanging inside the door, they will break the window and lift the keys. There is a good chance your car keys will be on the same key ring. They will take your car if they have the keys.
Keep your doors and windows locked whether you are at home or not and establish a bedtime routine which involves checking them just before you retire for the night.
Whether you have wooden, metal or UPVC window frames in your home there are a variety of locks available that are suitable for all window types. If your window does not already have a keyed lock fitted, then consider having them fitted, particularly on ground floor windows or upper windows that may be easily accessed from a flat roof.
Don't leave spare keys outside or in a garage/shed. Ensure they are kept out of sight and put in a secure place in the house if possible.
Use timer lights and radios if you need to be away from home overnight. They will create the impression that someone is in
Exterior lights are useful in discouraging the attention of criminals and it raises the potential of them being seen in the vicinity of your home by either yourself or a neighbour.
It is equally as important for neighbours to look out for each other. The chances are that if a criminal targets one house in a particular estate they may try your neighbour or someone else a few doors up. You know who lives on your street so if you see someone acting suspiciously note down any important details such as a description or car registration and contact police. We will follow up on your call and there is every possibility your information could prevent a crime.
Your local Crime Prevention Officer will be only too happy to call out to your home or have a chat on the phone about how you can take steps to better protect yourself and your property. They can be contacted on 0845 600 8000.
