Gardaí are asking people to park smart by locking their vehicle.

Spate of thefts from vehicles across Cork

The public has been urged to make sure their vehicles are locked following a number of thefts recently in areas across the city and county.

From 15-18 June, gardaí received 29 reports of vehicles being broken into in the Douglas, Blackrock and Gurranabraher areas.

Furthermore, on the night of 21 June, gardaí received a report of eight vehicles being broken into in Mallow. In these incidents, items like sunglasses, electronics and cash were stolen from the vehicles. In each incident, gardaí attended and carried out examinations of the scene and conducted enquires, but no arrests have been made to date.

Community Engagement Inspector Gary McPolin said: "Unfortunately a high proportion of the vehicles broken into last week were left unlocked. Let’s not make it easy for these criminals, make sure to lock you vehicle every time.

"Wherever you park your vehicle, we would always advise you to take your property with you and ensure the vehicle is locked, alarmed and parked in a secure, well-lit location.

“Try not to leave any valuables in it whatsoever,” Inspector McPolin added.

It’s not the first time An Garda Síochána has highlighted the need for greater awareness around leaving valuables in vehicles.

From 2016-2019 over €30 million worth of items stolen from vehicles across the country.

“If you do see someone in your area acting suspiciously, day or night, don’t think twice about calling us,” added Inspector McPolin.