LIVE: Offaly gardaí share photo of table in pub as major warning to locals
Offaly gardaí said the message is not about being paranoid, but about being more aware of surroundings and staying safe.
Offaly gardaí have issued a reminder to the public after a Crime Prevention Officer spotted a table left unattended during a night out.
According to gardaí, the table had a handbag left on a chair, two phones left behind and drinks sitting unattended.
While there was no incident, gardaí said this is exactly how most thefts happen - not through force or confrontation, but through opportunity.
They warned that it only takes a few seconds for someone to walk past and take a phone or a bag, while leaving drinks unattended can also pose risks people may not think about.
Offaly gardaí said people often step away from a table for a moment assuming everything will be fine, and most of the time it is, but it only has to go wrong once.
They are advising people to:
Take valuables with them when leaving a table
Keep bags close and in sight
Avoid leaving drinks unattended
Gardaí said the message is not about being paranoid, but about being more aware of surroundings and staying safe.