Warning after thieves prey on Mass-goers

Parishioners in a Co Derry parish are being urged to remain vigilant after a number of cars were broken into while locals were attending Mass and religious services.

The incidents happened in Ballinascreen over the last few days ‘under the cover of darkness’.

Brian McGuigan, Sinn Féin councillor for the area, urged everyone parking their cars and attending Mass or church services not to make it easy for thieves to steal people’s personal belongings.

Cllr McGuigan said: "Over recent days I have been made aware that a number of cars have been broken into when parked in a chapel car park in Ballinascreen parish during the course of evening Mass and under the cover of darkness.

“Mass-goers and those who are attending other church services should be mindful not to not have any personal belongings visibly displayed in their vehicles in order to help prevent the temptation of anti-community elements to break into and steal from cars.

"Apart from belongings and valuables being taken, there is also the issue of the cost of repairing the vehicle as a result of breaking glass to gain entry.”