Gardai are hailing the part played by the community text alert system used in Glenties to catch a number of alleged burglars.
Officers are using the success of the incident earlier this week to encourage communities across Donegal to set up and use the scheme.
The arrest of three men for incidents in Glenties has been highlighted by Divisional Crime Prevention Officer Sgt Paul Wallace.
Sgt Wallace raised the issue as he helped launch another community/text alert scheme – this time in the Glenmaquinn area of Raphoe.
It is the fourth such scheme launched in recent weeks as more and more communities look out for eachother in the battle against criminals.
Sgt Wallace said such schemes are helping the community to empower themselves and highlighted the situation in Glenties where people were detained for questioning.
This came as a result of quick text action and co-operation with local gardai in the moments after the alleged crimes in the area.
Gardai also issued the following advice to those at the recent launches of community alert schemes.
Burglaries:
A seasonal increase in residential burglaries can be tracked annually over late autumn and into the winter months and accounts for a 15% increase across the 12 calendar months. From crime prevention perspective the peak can be used to help focus the minds of the public in keeping their homes protected and secure whilst being vigilant in their community.
Key Points:
1. Darker evenings are a key driver in increased burglaries.
2. Ensure your house is secure, alarm is working and being used & drawing of curtains or light timer if house is vacant.
3. Keep in mind that restricted views by walls overgrown shrubbery can assist the burglar – not deter them – Burglars less likely to be seen.
4. Public are encourage to make reports as it gives Gardai best idea of emerging patterns in different areas.
5. Remember the rear of your home is the most vulnerable approximately 52% of homes are burgled from rear windows or doors – Remember burglars like seclusion.
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