Gardaí issue public warning regarding theft over Christmas

People should avoid leaving their smart phones and tablets on tables in bars and restaurants during the Christmas period.

Gardaí are warning that pickpockets are operating in crowded town centres.

People are also being advised to keep their handbags closed and not to put their wallets in their back pockets.

Sergeant Kelvin Courtney has said people should prepare just in case they are robbed: “When you are out and about make sure your handbags are closed, don’t keep wallets in your back pocket,

“Also might be a good idea to keep a small bit of cash somewhere else on your person rather than just in your wallet or your handbag, that way if you are a victim of that sort of crime you have a bit of spare cash as well to get home.”