GARDAÍ are warning tradespeople about a spate of tool-thefts from vans across Limerick which are putting people’s livelihoods in danger.
Sergeant Natasha Walsh, of Henry Street Garda Station in Limerick City, said there have been a number of thefts from vans in recent days, particularly overnight in hotel car parks.
“Thieves are targeting tools: drills, saws, even specialised gear. They know these tools are valuable and often left in vans overnight,” Sergeant Walsh said.
The first incident happened July 30 around 10.40pm in a hotel car park on the outskirts of Limerick City, Sergeant Walsh explained.
The van owner received a notification that the door of his van had been opened, which triggered an alarm.
“There was damage on a sliding door lock on the van, with work tools stolen, leaving the victim at a substantial loss,” she said.
Then, overnight between July 30 and 31, another van was broken into with the rear door forced open and work tools stolen, in yet another hotel car park just outside the city.
“We are urging tradespeople, contractors, and van owners to take extra precautions,” Sergeant Walsh said.
“It is all about money, so these stolen tools will be sold on for cash, in this supply and demand market. Always buy from legitimate sources and if you are offered something under suspicious circumstances, it could be stolen.
“Refuse to buy it and report the incident to your local Garda station. As long as there is demand for stolen goods, theft will continue.”
Issuing a further firm warning, Sergeant Walsh said: “Just remember – as tradespersons your tools are your livelihood. A few extra minutes securing your van can save you thousands. And we’re here to help – don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local Gardaí or crime prevention officer.”
Sergeant Walsh explained that Garda advice is not to leave tools in a van overnight if at all possible. Install additional security, like deadlocks or internal cages and back the van up against a wall or fence to block access to rear or side doors. Park in well lit area, under CCTV cameras if possible.
Tools should be marked with the owner’s name and a record kept of serial numbers backed up with photos.
“This really helps if we recover stolen property,” Sergeant Walsh said.
