Caught on camera: Men attempt to break into Dungiven chapel's donation boxes

Would-be thieves were caught on CCTV attempting to break into donation boxes in a County Derry chapel.

Two men wearing dark clothing approached St Patrick’s Church in Dungiven on foot in broad daylight on December 5.

One of the brazen individuals proceeded to enter the chapel while the second man waited at the door.

The incident happened shortly after 1pm while a number of parishioners were in the chapel grounds.

One of the men was seen on CCTV attempting to open the donation boxes at the candle shrines at the front and rear of the chapel, however he was unsuccessful and left empty-handed.

It is understood the church sacristan later raised the alarm. 

At weekend Masses, Fr Gerard Sweeney PP informed parishioners of the shocking incident.

He stated that other churches had also been targeted.

“If you see someone doing that, don’t engage them, just be safe, let me know or contact the police.  They have been trying this church and other churches as well,” he said.

Fr Sweeney urged parishioners to ‘keep an eye on your neighbour’.

“Besides the goodness that people do, there are always unsavoury people out there that always do bad things.  The most important thing today is you and your faith and the joy of this time,” he added.

Sinn Féin Councillor Sean McGlinchey has condemned those behind the incident.

“To do this in broad daylight in a chapel is absolutely disgraceful.  This is a sacred place for many people and for anyone to stoop to this level is disgusting. I will be speaking to the police about this,” he said.

The councillor has urged people to be vigilant, particularly in the run-up to Christmas.

“It’s important that people are made aware of this situation and take steps to ensure that their property is secure.  I would also urge residents to look out for others in the community, particularly the elderly and vulnerable,” he added.