THERE is widespread anger in east Donegal today after burglars went on a crime spree.
Thieves targeted at least eight homes in the latest series of incidents in the Raphoe and Convoy areas – just days after a burglar punched a 96-year-old woman during a raid in Buncrana.
Sgt Paul Wallace, the Co Donegal crime prevention officer, warned that the investigations are at an early stage, adding: “We may well be dealing with more than eight but that is what has been reported so far.”
An English-registered Honda or Toyota car was seen in the area where the thefts took place.
TVs, laptops and cash were taken in several of the raids.
Thieves also posed as Donegal County Council workers in a number of the incidents.
“We have a case where a man posing as a council worker spoke to a homeowner whilst another thief entered the property by a back door and stole goods that way. It is a classic case of a diversionary burglary,” said Sgt Wallace.
The officer appealed for public help in preventing such crimes.
“This took place just a few days after that dreadful crime in Buncrana and I would appeal to the public to be vigilant at all times,” he said.
Sgt Wallace said members of the public should report any suspicious activity – especially in rural areas – to their nearest 24-hour Garda station.
The thefts come as it was revealed today that Minister Alan Shatter has asked for 1,500 Gardai to be cut.
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