Guns, electrical goods, ornaments and a mobile phone have been taken during the course of a spate of burglaries and attempted burglaries.
And tonight (Thursday), detectives have issued an appeal for information in response to incidents in the Tynan and Middletown areas on Saturday, November 23.
Sometime between 11am and 8pm a house in the Ivy Park area of Middletown was targeted and an attempt made to gain entry. Damage was caused to windows at the house but no entry was gained.
In Tynan, a house in the Coolkill Road area was broken into sometime between 7.30pm and midnight and a gun cabinet with two legally held firearms taken.
At around 8pm it was reported that a house on Main Street had been entered and ransacked. A number of glass items and a mobile phone were taken.
A burglary at Dartan Ree was reported at around 8.10pm in which a television was taken from the house.
Officers are investigating a link between these incidents and are keen to speak with the owner or passengers of a black car bearing southern registration plates that was seen in the Dartan Ree area around this time.
A further attempted burglary was reported to police at a house in the Linen Green area of Milford sometime between 7.30pm on Saturday, November 23 and 2am on Sunday. Damage was caused to the lock and door frame but entry was not gained.
A PSNI spokesperson appealed for vigilance and to the public to improve their security.
He said: “Police would advise residents to ensure their homes are secure at all times. Make sure windows and doors are locked. Do not leave valuables where they can be seen through windows by passersby. If you have an alarm make sure you use it. If you don’t, consider purchasing an alarm or security lighting to give your home extra protection.
“Many of us have been saving for Christmas, however, it is sensible not to keep large sums of money in the house. Large sums are better kept secure in a bank or other financial institution. Christmas gifts, particularly those of high value or popularity, should be stored securely within the home and not left out on display or visible to passersby.
“Neighbours can also play a vital part in helping prevent burglary by keeping an eye-out for suspicious vehicles and people and by reporting ALL suspicious activity to police. If you intend to be away from your home for a period of time for any reason, let a trusted neighbour or your local police station know. The number to call is 0845 600 8000 or in an emergency dial 999.”
Further crime prevention advice can be obtained by visiting the PSNI website at www.psni.police.uk or by contacting your local Crime Prevention Officer.
