Police link string of burglaries and car thefts in Derry

Police in Derry are appealing for information and witnesses following reports of a burglary, vehicle theft and thefts from vehicles in the Waterside area of the city over the past 24 hours. 

These include a report of a red Vauxhall Crossland being stolen from outside an address in Good Shepherds Glen, believed to have occurred sometime around 2.30am today, 5 March, and of a black Volkswagen Golf stolen from outside an address in Glenmore Park sometime between 3.50am and 4am, also today.

A set of keys to a silver Volkswagen Arteon was taken in a burglary reported at a house in Butler's Wharf, with the vehicle also reported stolen. This is believed to have occurred sometime between 11pm last night and 8.30am today. 

Police have also received a report this morning of a car parked in Good Shepherds Glen being ransacked overnight. Nothing has been reported stolen at this time. A further report was received of a car parked in Butlers Wharf being ransacked and an item stolen.

Police believe these incidents may be linked, and appeal to anyone who has CCTV or doorbell camera footage from around these times to check it as it may assist enquiries. Police also encourage anyone who may have been travelling in these areas around this time and who has dash cam, to also check their footage.

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Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the vehicles stolen or believes they may have seen them is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference numbers 115 of 05/03/26 or submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. 

Police are appealing to the public to be vigilant.

Sergeant McGurk said: "If you see anything you think isn't right, or looks suspicious, note as much detail as you can and report it immediately on 101, always 999 in an emergency. 

"When it comes to our vehicle, for many people it's one of the biggest purchases you make and having it broken into or stolen can be distressing, and can cause a lot of inconvenience if you are without it while it is being repaired or replaced. It's important you do all you can to keep it secure. The security features of your vehicle should be as important as any other feature or accessory. 

Below we have listed a few simple steps you can take to keep your vehicle and what's in it, safe." 

Lock your vehicle - Develop the habit of always locking your vehicle, even if you're stepping away for a brief moment. Whether refuelling or quickly retrieving something from your house, it's crucial not to overlook the security of your vehicle. Ensure that you properly lock your vehicle, especially if it has wing mirrors that fold in automatically when locked. Criminal gangs specifically target vehicles with extended wing mirrors, as it indicates that the vehicle has been left unlocked. Stay vigilant and protect your vehicle from potential theft by taking this simple yet effective precaution.

Keep your vehicle in a garage - If you have a garage “use it” and lock it. If you have gates ensure these are locked. Consider using an alarm for you garage and gates.

Keep your keys safe - Keys and ignition fobs should be kept safe and out of sight and reach. A common way to steal a car or van is to take the keys or ignition fob, either when left in the vehicle or from your home through burglary.