Police issue advice to motorists after spate of thefts in Antrim

Police in Antrim & Newtownabbey have issued advice to motorists after a spate of car thefts in Antrim this week.

Areas where vehicles were targeted included Tower Way, Kilbride Gardens, Kilgreel Road, Portlee Walk and Stiles Farm, all within Antrim.

Inspector Patton said:

“These reports are concerning and this is why we encourage all vehicle owners to make it as difficult as possible for any would-be thieves.

“Firstly, if you have a garage use it. It will be more difficult for your car to be moved or for contents to be taken from inside a garage.

“Do not leave your car keys in open view or in an obvious place. Store them away out of sight and in a secure bag if possible.

“Ensure your car is locked, even if it is parked at your own property and ensure valuables are not left inside the car.

“If you park your car in the drive way then consider fitting substantial gates and cameras.

“Everyone should take this precautions to protect their vehicle and to avoid being a victim of this type of crime.

“At this time, we are appealing to anyone with information about the attempted thefts aforementioned or those who may have doorbell or any other video-type footage that could assist our enquiries, to contact police on 101 or online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport .”

For most of us, our vehicle is the second largest purchase we make after our home, so it is important to make sure we keep it secure at all times. The security features of your vehicle should be as important as any other feature or accessory you own.

Having your vehicle broken into or stolen can be distressing and it can cause a lot of inconvenience if you are without it for a while, if it is being repaired or replaced.

For more advice on preventing car and vehicle theft, visit the PSNI’s dedicated information page here.