Garda warning as shoppers and sportspeople targeted

Local Gardaí are urging members of the public to be careful with their belongings, after they received several recent reports of handbags, cash and phones being stolen by opportunistic thieves.

At least twice in the last week, shoppers at a Birr supermarket reported their handbags or wallets were stolen from their cars while they were distracted by a stranger They described being approached by a person, while at their car in the supermarket car park, who was looking for change or asked to borrow a coin for a shopping trolley. Their handbag or wallet was then taken from the car.

As we enter the beginning of the busy Christmas shopping season, Sgt Alan Kerin said this kind of criminal activity may increase, and he urged people to be vigilant when shopping.

“We would advise people not to leave wallets or handbags on display in your car. If you are approached by a stranger in a car park, be vigilant and keep an eye on your valuables,” he advised.

Birr Gardaí are also investigating an incident that took place in Birr Rugby Club on Sunday afternoon (November 10), in which valuables were stolen while a match was underway.

The perpetrators entered the club's dressing room between 12.30 and 4.30pm, while the teams were playing a match, and stole equipment including two phones as well as a small amount of cash. Anyone who has information which could help Gardaí in their investigations into the above incidents is asked to contact Birr Garda Station on 057 9169710.