Car stolen in broad daylight

The green Mercedes was taken between 3.15pm and 4.30pm on Thursday December 29. Last year the Leader reported that thieves operating in the area had broken into three cars in as many months.

One victim claimed thieves were preying on customers of the nearby Scarva Tea Rooms and walkers enjoying the scenic towpath route. Between May and August last year two handbags, a phone and a wallet and money were stolen from cars parked in the area.

Police confirmed that no items have been recovered following these thefts and no-one has been arrested.

“Despite numerous police enquiries and public appeals for information following thefts from cars on two occasions on 21 May and 31 August, in the Main Street area of Scarva no property has been recovered nor arrests made.

“Officers visited the area and spoke to staff and customers in the local area as part of their enquiries on a number of occasions and also supplied advice leaflets on vehicle security for local customers.

And now brazen thieves have stolen a car in broad daylight. Speaking following the break-ins last year Tea Rooms Supervisor Linda Drummond said even one of their staff members had been targeted by thieves.

“One of the girls that works here had left her car parked here overnight and came back to find someone had stolen her hubcaps,” she said. She said there is a sign in the car park warning people not to leave valuables in the car and leaflets offering advice on vehicle security in the cafe.”

Another victim said she had been robbed off precious photographs when her mobile phone was stolen. She called for more to be done to tackle theft in the area.

“You hear about Scarva being this picturesque little village where nothing bad ever happens but if this is just one of many thefts recently then something really needs to be done,” she said.

Following the theft of the car from the Visitor’s Cent re in Main Street, police issued an appeal for information.

A spokeswoman said, “A green Mercedes, registration KLZ 3353, was taken from the Visitor’s Centre between 3.15pm and 4.30pm on Thursday December 29.

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the car being taken or any activity in the area during this time or anyone who has information in relation to the whereabouts of the car to contact them in Banbridge 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.