Police have issued a warning car owners following the theft of a vehicle in Newry .
A BMW was reported stolen from the Newtown Road area on Thursday January 16 at around 3.30am without the use of force or theft of keys.
In an appeal for witnesses, police said that "advances in technology" are being used to redirect wireless signals from car key fobs.
Detective Constable Middleton said: "It's reported that a car - a grey BMW 640D Sport - was stolen at around 3.30am. The car, which was locked, was taken without entry being forced or the keys stolen from the owner.
"We are appealing to anyone with information, or who may have noticed any suspicious activity around that time, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 193 of 17/01/20.
"I'm keen to remind everyone that, with advances in technology, thieves are now able to gain access to your car by redirecting the wireless signal from your key fob.
"Owners should take the same precautions as they do with home security. Establish a routine to help keep your vehicle safe. Make use of your garage, if you have one; or use physical car locks such as steering column locks and chains.
"Keep all car keys, including spares, away from exterior doors and walls, and consider using a blocking pouch (lined with metallic material) to help block the wireless signal from your key fob."
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