Gardaí investigating a spate of thefts from cars in Cork towns and suburbs

Gardaí have not ruled out the possibility that a single gang carried out a spate of thefts from vehicles and car thefts across West Cork and Cork city over the weekend.

Superintendent Brendan Fogarty confirmed that there were four stolen cars in the Bandon and Clonakilty area as well as 35 cars broken into.

“Over a two day period, there were 14 reports of theft from cars in Bandon and 21 in Clonakilty. There was also a number in the city.” 

Superintendent Fogarty said the force was remaining open-minded about the incidents and could not rule out the possibility that it was all carried out by the one gang. “Time-wise it is possible,” he said.

The Bandon Superintendent said that the various districts affected by the weekend’s thefts were working together to find those responsible. However, he also said that it was worrying that so many of the cars broken into were left open.

“Despite media requests and constant appeals from Gardaí, people are still making it very easy for these guys. I know in Bandon only one of the cars were actually broken into. The rest were open.” 

The Superintendent said it was mostly purses and cash that were taken from the vehicles but also said that in recent times a car was stolen which had its keys left in it.

“We would encourage people to secure their property. Make sure cars are locked and don’t leave property such as laptops or tools in view.” 

Speaking at Bandon Garda Station today, Superintendent Brendan Fogarty said “Ensure the vehicle is locked, alarmed and parked in a secure, well-lit location.

“Over the weekend in Cork City, we also had a number of theft from cars in Ballincollig, Douglas and Togher.

“But this is not just an issue for us in Cork. Criminals throughout the country are going around housing estates and trying every car door until they get one that is unlocked. Unfortunately, in Clonakilty, Belgooly and Riverstick, this was the case and on Sunday night we had 35 incidents.” 

Supt Fogarty appealed to the public to assist the ongoing investigation by passing on information and any CCTV or dash cam footage they might have.

“I would ask that if anyone noticed any suspicious people or vehicles around Clonakilty, Belgooly or Riverstick on Sunday night into Monday morning, to contact us at any Garda Station. Any cars or taxis who were driving in those areas with dash cams we would also like to hear from you.”