Northern Ireland News - Police issue burglary warning in west Belfast

29 June 2005

Police issue burglary warning in west Belfast

Police have issued a warning to householders in west Belfast following a number of burglaries in the area over the past weekend.

Officers say entry to premises having been gained through unlocked doors and windows in almost 30% of domestic burglaries in the area this year.

Constable Pete Connolly, the Crime Prevention Officer at Woodbourne police station, said: "What is most alarming is that these burglaries tend to occur in the very late evening or through the night. People are going to bed at night without taking the simple protective steps of locking their doors and windows.

In many areas, car criminals and burglars are literally walking the streets trying the doors of people's homes. This is not sophisticated crime it is entirely opportunistic."

Constable Connolly said that by taking simple steps of locking doors and windows and putting valuables out of sight of casual observation, householders could reduce the likelihood of criminals successfully targeting their homes.

(MB/SP)