Gardaí in Offaly and neighbouring counties investigating rural house burglaries

Gardaí in Laois and Offaly are currently investigating a number of rural house burglaries.

"While we are actively working to prevent further incidents, we need the continued support and vigilance of local communities," the local Gardaí said.

As we come into the spring months, people naturally spend more time outdoors, working around their homes, farms and gardens. Unfortunately, this can also create opportunities for crime if basic security is overlooked, the Gardaí said.

In many burglaries, the most commonly stolen items are cash and jewellery, often taken quickly from accessible areas of the home. In fact, one in four burglaries involves entry through an unlocked door or window.

Common vulnerabilities include doors, windows, gates or sheds left unlocked.

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Also be vigilant about keys left in vehicles or machinery; tools or equipment left unsecured; cash or jewellery left visible or easily accessible and property not marked or recorded.

Criminals look for the easiest opportunity. If a property appears accessible or unobserved, it is more likely to be targeted.

What you can do today: Lock doors, windows, gates and sheds; remove keys from vehicles and machinery; secure tools and equipment when not in use and keep cash and jewellery out of sight or in a secure safe

Mark and record property (we recommend the Garda Property App) and use external lighting and CCTV where appropriate and always report suspicious behaviour promptly.

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Good habits, neighbour awareness and timely reporting all help to reduce opportunities for crime, the Gardaí remind people.

"If you see anything suspicious or have information, contact 999 immediately. Working together, we can help keep our communities safe," the Gardaí said.