Warning after tank and piping thefts

A copper tank and heating pipes were stolen from a vacant property on the Dunbar Road between March 18 and 20. A water tank and piping were solen from a house on the Glassesstown Road and reported to police last week.

Following the similar thefts police have issued a warning to householders to take steps to secure their properties and reduce their chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime.

A PSNI spokeswoman said, “Householders can take steps to reduce their chance of becoming a victim of this type of crime. The most crucial thing is to close and lock doors and windows.

“Good security may seem daunting however, in reality, it is only a matter of applying a common sense approach to securing your valuables. Think about ways burglars can get what they want, and what you can do to stop that.”

The spokeswoman recommeneded looking at what can be improved in your home in terms of security.

“Why not conduct a brief risk assessment of your own home and re-evaluate your crime prevention routine?” she said. “It will take a few minutes and should be well worth the effort if it makes the premises more secure and helps prevent the heartache and distress burglary causes.”

Police have appealed to anyone who may know anything about either incident to contact them 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.