Gardaí are on the hunt for a gang of thieves who robbed cash and jewellery from a store on Main Street Letterkenny.
Mourne Antiques in Letterkenny was targetted in the distraction-style theft on Saturday last.
A substantial amount of cash and antique jewellery pieces were robbed from the back storeroom.
The incident took place on Saturday 18th January between 4pm and 4.30pm.
Five women and one man, described as being of Eastern European origin, entered the shop and distracted staff before entering the private back storeroom.
Gardaí confirmed that they are investigating the theft and exploring the possibility that the same gang also carried out burglaries in Derry and parts of Northern Ireland. Gardaí and the PSNI are working together on the matter following a similar incident on the same day in Derry.
Speaking in the Community Garda Slot, Sergeant Paul Wallace alerted business owners to be vigilant for distraction thefts such as this:
“This is a threat for every business person from a crime prevention point of view.”
They call it streaming, they come in and start asking questions and diverting your attention. It’s an overwhelming experience for the member of staff,” Sgt Wallace said.
Gardaí are appealing to the public to help with investigations and report any sightings of the group of five women and one man in the vicinity of Mourne Antiques on Saturday afternoon.
Anyone who saw people entering the shop or getting in a car afterwards is asked to contact Letterkenny Garda Station on 0749167100 or call the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
