DETECTIVES in Derry have set up a special team to crack crime gangs behind a spate of burglaries in recent weeks.
The prolific organised gangs have struck all over the city; stealing everything from family heirlooms to children’s bicycles.
One of the gangs struck again last night – but thankfully didn’t get their way past the security of the homeowner in Sandale Park off the Lenamore Road.
It happened some time between 6.45pm and 8.45pm.
“They wrecked my front door, back door and windows. They didn’t get in, but it makes me angry that I’ve had to work hard to get things and scum bags just destroy your property,” said the home owner.
Bicycles and garden equipment have been taken in other robberies, with a spate of thefts in Carnhill and Pennyburn.
There was a crime alert in the city last week as a gang using a white van raided homes; whilst another burglary team raided a house off the old Letterkenny Road before making off in an old Datsun.
Detectives at Strand Road police station are also appealing for information about two burglaries in the Waterside.
Last Thursday houses at Broomhill Court and Rossdowney Road were broken into.
Detective Inspector David McQuade said that at Broomhill Court, suspects forced entry to the rear of the house and a number of high value items were stolen, including exclusive wines, champagnes and spirits and jewellery and cash.
At Rossdowney Road, a quantity of cash was stolen.
Police are keen to hear from anyone who noticed vehicles being used in suspicious circumstances between 6pm and 8pm.
Information can be given on the police non-emergency number, 101, or by calling the Crimestoppers Charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Advice on beating the burglars
Make a habit of checking that ground floor windows and doors are closed and locked when you leave the house or go to bed. Upstairs windows should be locked when the house is unoccupied. PVCu doors must be locked by lifting the handle and using the key to ensure all the security features are in place.
Car and house keys should be kept out of sight in a safe place. Don’t leave them on display on window sills, in porches, hallways or kitchens.
Secure your rear garden by shutting and locking any gates. Burglars can use garden tools to break in, so make sure you securely lock away any tools after use.
Why not be a good neighbour – if they are out, help deter burglars and give their home the lived-in look by putting away their emptied rubbish bins. You can also help by keeping a look out for unusual callers in your neighbourhood, and call the police if you see anyone acting suspiciously. Keep a pen and some paper handy. The car number you jot down may be just what the police need to catch a burglar.
Get a photograph or video if possible.
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