Police are asking drivers to be vigilant after four cars were stolen overnight on Saturday in County Londonderry. Two were taken from Derry and two were taken from Claudy village, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland believes the two thefts in Claudy are linked, with a connection to the thefts in Derry a line of enquiry.
There was also an attempt to steal two other vehicles in the Beech Hill View area of Drumahoe. Police are continuing their enquiries into all of the incidents and are urging people to take care with their vehicles.
What did police say about the thefts?
Supt Sinead McIldowney from the PSNI said police want those responsible to stop before someone is seriously hurt.
“I want to speak directly to those involved in this treacherous activity – this needs to stop, before you kill yourself or an innocent member of the public.”
She added that officers are actively searching for the offenders and that the local community can expect criminal justice action when they are found.
“Our officers continue to actively search for you, and we can assure the local community that, once located, we will rigorously pursue criminal justice outcomes for these offenders,” she added.
Which vehicles were stolen?
A silver Kia Venga was stolen from Mansfield Grove in the Cityside area. A silver BMW 320D was taken from Clon Elagh following a burglary in which the car keys were stolen.
Meanwhile, a grey Jaguar XF was taken from the Cregglea area of Claudy and was later located burnt out by gardaí, in Burt, County Donegal. A black Audi Q7 was taken from the Braefield area of the village and police say it was driven dangerously back and forth over the border throughout the night and into Sunday afternoon.
What happened to the Audi Q7?
The Audi was pursued by officers from both the PSNI and An Garda Siochana before it was found burnt out. Police say the vehicle was driven at high speed with no regard for other road users.
“Those on-board drove the Audi at high speeds with no thought for the safety of other road users.”Supt McIldowney said thefts and break-ins can be distressing and disruptive for victims.
“Having your vehicle broken into or stolen can be distressing, and it can cause a lot of inconvenience if you are without it while it is being repaired or replaced.”
What else are police investigating?
The PSNI says the two thefts in Claudy are believed to be linked, and officers are treating a possible connection to the Derry thefts as part of their ongoing line of enquiry. Police are also examining the attempted thefts of two other vehicles in the Beech Hill View area of Drumahoe.
Residents across County Londonderry are being asked to remain alert and report any suspicious activity as officers continue to investigate the overnight incidents.
