A spate of burglaries in the south Armagh area in recent weeks has forced the PSNI into launching a campaign to crack down on criminal activity.
The Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Newry Mourne and Down in partnership with the PSNI are encouraging public to work together to address the burglaries that have taken place in recent weeks.
Cllr Brian Quinn Chair PCSP, stated: “The PCSP actively promote and support communities working together to address crime in their areas and there are a number of ways that we achieve this.
“Neighbourhood Watch is an excellent scheme that has been proven to be an effective deterrent in supporting communities to look out for each and report suspicious activity. Members of the public can also sign up to Text Alert scheme to receive PSNI updates direct to your mobile on what to look for and how to report suspicious activity.”
District Commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, Supt. Paul Reid, said: “We are aware that members of the community have been carrying out patrols in various parts of area of Newry.
“I am aware of the concerns within communities, especially in the wake of the series of burglaries recently. It is important that this vigilance does not become vigilante activity.
“Such activity would not be tolerated in a peaceful society and I would caution any individual or group against taking the law into their own hands. Those who do may themselves risk committing offences that may subsequently leave them liable to prosecution.
“Much good work is already being undertaken by Neighbourhood Watch groups, there are around 170 such groups across Newry, Mourne & Down and I would encourage people to consider joining their nearest group or to discuss how they might form a new group in their own area. Advice is readily available from both PCSP and police.
“The public can be assured that the Police will continue to work in partnership with community groups and other statutory agencies to reduce the level of anti-social behaviour and all other forms of crime across the wider Newry area.”
Anyone who has any information regarding crime and antisocial behaviour in the area has a responsibility to contact police so that the matter can be fully investigated. The telephone number to ring is 101, or contact the Crimestoppers charity on Freephone 0800 555111.”
Anybody seeking information on Neighbourhood Watch or to sign up to Text Alert should contact the PCSP office on 028 30313078.
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