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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Derry's Waterside residents urged to lock windows and doors after spate of attempted burglaries

People in a part of Derry have been urged to check that their windows and doors are locked after a spate of attempted burglaries.

It comes after a series of attempted break-ins in the Fountain Hill area of the Waterside in Derry.

SDLP councillor Sean Mooney after hearing "very concerning" reports of door handles being tried in the area, he reported it to the PSNI.

Read more: Plans for major housing development worth £120m in Derry moves to next stage

The PSNI said that report was made to the police on October 2 after an "individual wearing a white hooded top was trying door handles of homes".

Police told MyDerry that they responded, and conducted a check of the area, but no person was identified at that time.

Cllr Mooney said: “When I heard these reports, I immediately contacted the police to ascertain whether they had investigated this disturbing occurrence.

“They confirmed that a report had been received but that the investigation is ongoing.

“I would encourage everyone in the local area to be vigilant for these unscrupulous individuals and report any suspicious activity to the police.

“There is no place for criminality in our community.”

Meanwhile, speaking to MyDerry, Sergeant Campbell urged residents across the city to make home security part of their daily routine.

"Our officers will continue to conduct checks of the area and we would urge anyone who sees anything out of the ordinary, whether that's a person or a vehicle, to call us. The faster this information is reported, the faster we can act," he said.

"We know that burglary is a very personal, intrusive crime and victims feel shocked and vulnerable.

“We want people to make home security part of their daily routine. By getting in the habit doing things every day, the less chance you have of being targeted by opportunistic burglars."

He continued: "Make sure you lock all doors and windows, ensure alarms are working and store valuables out of sight. The same applies to garages, sheds and outbuildings.

"Check they have working locks and alarms and that valuable items are secured away and appropriately marked.”

“And, if you see something on your street, or in your neighbourhood that doesn’t look right then let us know. Don’t wait. Pick up the phone and tell us as soon as you can.

"We’ve caught burglars in the act because someone called us straight away. The sooner we know, the faster we can respond and the safer your neighbourhood will be.”

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