Daring thieves targeting housing estates in daytime raids

A GANG has stolen tens of thousands of euro worth of cash, jewellery and other valuable items in daylight robberies of family homes.

Gardaí, describing the thieves as “audacious criminals”, believe the gang is behind scores of house break-ins in west Waterford and east Cork.

In recent weeks, gardaí have been inundated with calls from householders that returned from work to find their homes ransacked.

A Garda spokesman said the gang, most likely based in Co Waterford, have become so daring they are targeting estates with almost impunity.

“They will park their getaway vehicle away from the estate and walk in. They go knocking on doors and if they get no response they will go in the back of the house and force open a window,” the spokesman said.

If a householder responds to their knocking at the door, and if they are elderly, the gang members alter their approach.

“They will usually make up an excuse they are there to check the water supply or the gas. Once they get inside, they try and distract the householder while seeking out valuables,” the garda said.

The gang specialises in stealing cash, jewellery and other valuable portable items.

Gardaí say the critical time for burglaries is between 9am and 12.30pm — when many occupants are out at work.

Usually the gang members walk around estates on their own.

“They split up and knock on doors around the estates. They are well-dressed and well-spoken,” the spokesman added.

In particular, areas like Cappoquin, Lismore, Youghal, Ballyduff, Midleton and Cobh have been hit in recent weeks. Prior to that, areas of north Cork, around Charleville, Mallow, Castletownroche, Killavullen and Fermoy fell victim to the gang.

“We are appealing to anybody who is legitimately employed reading gas meters, or checking water for a local authority, to notify the Garda station in the area they intend to visit before they do so,” the Garda spokesman said.

He added that householders should lock all their windows before leaving for work and ensure they have a proper alarm system fitted.

“Do not let anybody into your home if you are suspicious. People working for councils, gas companies etc should carry proper ID. We’re appealing for anybody who noticed any suspicious callers to immediately notify their local Garda station,” the spokesman added.