Gardaí label thieves a ‘right shower’ after flood of raids on new homes

YOU could describe this gang of thieves as “a right shower”.

Gardaí are hoping to give them an “early bath” and put an end to their recent activities — which are estimated to have caused more than €150,000 worth of damage.

The thieves are specialising in stealing electric showers from houses under construction.

In itself the showers are only worth about €200.

However, it is the manner in which they are taking the units which is causing the problem.

Not being adept plumbers, and probably hoping for a quick escape, they are just ripping them off the wall without turning off the water supply.

As a result a number of houses have been badly flooded in Cork city.

In recent days the gang has increased its intensity, including hitting seven houses in the one estate.

They targeted seven homes nearing completion at the Meadows, Hollyhill.

Prior to that they paid a visit to Shanakiel.

In each case they kicked in the reinforced perspex in the back doors.

“It is estimated the flooding has caused a considerable amount of damage, possibly between €10,000 and €15,000 per house,” said superintendent Con Cadogan.

He said it was quite obvious that the gang were stealing the shower units for the purposes of resale.

“They obviously have an outlet for them and it is highly unlikely anybody offered them is getting them packed in the original box,” said Supt Cadogan.

“We would obviously like to hear from anybody who is offered a shower in unusual circumstances,” he added.

However, he didn’t rule out the possibility that the shower units are being stolen for export.

Supt Cadogan said it was particularly annoying for builders.

“Not only will they have to replace the shower units, but they are also faced with replacing plaster, floorboards and carpets,” the superintendent said.

Anybody with information is asked to contact Gurranabraher garda station at 021 4946200.