Car theft in Ballynanny Road

POLICE in Banbridge are reminding motorists to remove valuables from sight when leaving their vehicle unattended, following an incident in the Ballynanny Road area.

Some time between 7.30pm and 8.30pm on Tuesday, 27 November, the window of a Ford Focus car parked in a church car park, was smashed and a handbag taken.

Police are appealing to anyone who has information in relation to this incident to contact them in Banbridge, on 0845 600 8000.

They are also reminding motorists to protect their property.

Crime Prevention Officer, Michelle Wilson, said: “It is important that motorists realise their vehicle can be like a shop window to an unscrupulous thief; if they see valuables, it is likely they will try to steal them. All motorists should take an extra few seconds at the end of a car journey to secure their belongings.

“Store your valuables safely in the boot of your car and leave your vehicle knowing that nothing is ‘on display’. Even if a handbag or briefcase is empty, remove it or conceal it in the boot – a thief won’t know it is empty until they have broken into your vehicle, by which time the damage to your car has already been done.

“The following simple steps can help to prevent being targeted. Park in secure or well-lit locations, keep all valuables and personal possessions out of sight, lock bulky items in the boot, lock doors and boot and close all windows and sunroof, remove a CD player facia if possible, when removing a Sat Nav wipe the suction cup mark from the windscreen, consider locking wheel nuts and remove the keys from the ignition when away from the vehicle.

“If you would like further information you can contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on 0845 600 8000.”