Gardaí warn Cork firms to install back-up alarms

GARDAÍ have warned businesses to install back-up alarm systems after a spate of robberies in Co Cork.

The latest theft took place early yesterday at Innishannon and Boherbue, although gardaí don’t believe the same gang was involved.

Some time between 1am and 3am raiders broke into the shop at O’Sullivan’s service station in Innishannon. They cut the wires on the alarm system and after breaking into the building they lifted a heavy safe off a shelf before cutting it open with what was likely to be angle-grinders.

The raiders escaped with what is believed to be a relatively large sum of money.

Detective Inspector Joe Moore said it was likely that at least four men had lifted the heavy safe.

He said gardaí are anxious to hear from anybody who heard or saw anything suspicious in the area.

Anybody with information is asked to contact Bandon Garda Station at [phone].

Detective Inspector Moore said the second robbery at the SuperValu supermarket in Boherbue took place around 2.30am.

The raiders forced up the security shutters and then smashed in the front door with a sledge hammer.

They fled with a quantity of cigarettes.

“We believe that a black car, which was possibly a hatchback, was used in this robbery and that up to three people took part in it,” the senior garda said.

Gardaí are looking for anyone who saw such a car in the vicinity.

In this case gardaí in Kanturk are seeking the information and they can be contacted at (029) 50002.

“Businesspeople must ensure that they have a back-up alarm system which will activate if somebody cuts the wires. This system should be monitored by a security company,” he said.

“Business owners should speak to the gardaí or reputable security companies about back-up alarm systems.”

He added that business people should also ensure that they keep the smallest possible amount of cash on their premises.