Investigations follow recent spate of Westport burglaries

Investigations continue after recent spate of Westport burglaries


Neill O’Neill

IN light of a spate of recent burglaries in Westport, Gardaí are appealing to the entire community to be vigilant and keep an eye out in their local nighbourhoods.
The recent string of break-ins has included an intruder entering an occupied house last week and, in another instance, a thief spending almost an hour going through a pub in the town centre in the early hours of the morning.
A Garda spokesperson said that while people are generally security conscious, they should always be aware that thieves can be on the lookout for opportunities. The nature of recent burglaries indicates that the perpetrators are being both opportunistic and lucky, he said.
Both private homes and commercial premises in and around Westport have been broken into. Conway’s Pub on Bridge Street was targeted at 4.30am one night last month, with the thief gaining access through the rear of the building. Houses in Carrabawn and Knockranny were broken into. Two houses at the Quay were also burgled in broad daylight some weeks ago.
In Carnalurgan, just off the West Road last week, a young woman startled an intruder who had entered her family home. The intruder, who subsequently fled across adjacent fields, was dressed in black and carrying a red rucksack. The incident was extremely frightening for the young woman and her family and neighbours.
The Gardaí are now urging extreme vigilance, and ask that people report anything suspicious.
“The thieves seem to be looking for money, and will often leave valuables behind. We have to urge people not to hold quantities of cash at their homes or in business premises, and to be vigilant about security, using alarms and locking doors and windows,” said the spokesperson.
Anybody who can help with any of the investigations into the aforementioned burglaries, or who sees or hears anything suspicious at any time, should contact Gardaí in Westport on 098 25555.