Chalk marks outside homes indicate potential for theft

It has been reported that criminal gangs are leaving chalk marks outside homes, in an effort to alert other burglars as to whether this property is worth robbing.

According to today's Irish Examiner community alert groups have reported seeing such codes left outside homes in Dublin, Drogheda and Limerick.

It is understood there are 8 symbols, and they range in meaning from things like “this home is a good target, vulnerable female easily conned” to “alarmed and too risky.”

Homeowners who spot them are being advised to remove them immediately and report the incident to the Gardaí.