Gardaí in Waterford are urging the public to be alert to vehicle thefts.

There have been numerous incidents in the local area recently, with some vehicle types being specifically targeted.

On average, over €340,000 worth of property was stolen from vehicles each year according to Gardaí. Property stolen included cash, laptops, tools, sunglasses, jewellery, and sports equipment.

Figures from the CSO show that 4,037 motor theft and related offences were reported between January and June of last year.

Over half of the incidents took place in Dublin, with the next highest in Cork and Limerick.

Speaking on this week’s Waterford Garda Watch, Garda Ian O’Byrne from Waterford Garda Station gave the following advice.

“If you do not have an immobiliser, please consider a steering wheel lock or an external wheel lock or a clamp. Always try and park under street lights and where there is CCTV.

“If you have a vehicle without an immobiliser you should maybe consider having one retrofitted. They work by restricting an essential component part of the engine unless the correct key is used to start the vehicle.  If an attempt is made to steal your vehicle, it should not start and the alarm should sound.”

Several thefts have taken place across Waterford City recently, particularly in areas such as Lismore Park, Ardkeen Village, Maypark Lane, and Bracken Grove.

Waterford Garda Station can be contacted at 051-305300.

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