In the run-up to the Christmas holiday period, Donegal’s Garda crime prevention officer is warning owners and operators of retail businesses and commercial premises that there are criminals who are very organised, well-equipped and determined to gain entry to their outlets.
Sergeant Paul Wallace is also asking that businesses review their security arrangements and surveillance equipment.
And he is asking business persons to agree a protocol with local gardai on responding to intruder alarms on their premises.
The appeal follows a recent attempt to gain entry to a filling station in Letterkenny.
Owners of tools such as petrol-driven con saws, grinders, axes and sledgehammers, and the shops that sell them, are being warned to ensure they are secured and locked away over the Christmas period.
Gardai are also asking that any theft of such items be immediately reported to them.
The warning is because these are items used in break-ins.
It’s after a number of commercial premises in the north west have been the target of an organised group of criminals.
Donegal Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Paul Wallace outlined the need for vigilance when it comes to various tools.
