ALERT: Garda warning issued as Grinch gang target Christmas toys in theft spree

Gardaí have issued advice to homeowners to protect their property amid a spate of burglaries targeting Christmas toys.

Gardaí in Navan, Co Meath, during a planned property search, seized a large quantity of Christmas toys which they believe to be stolen.

Similar searches are taking place nationwide under Operation Thor, to help Gardaí "work on reducing organised retail crime."

Gardaí in Meath are also investigating two other burglary incidents which happened around the same time.

One incident in Oristown, Kells Saturday December 7th and another in Bettystown on December 9.

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Gardaí call for "anybody who noticed any suspicious persons or vehicles in the area around this time," to contact their local Garda Station. 

Operation Thor

Operation Thor, according to An Garda Síochána, was launched in 2015 to "tackle the anticipated increase in the number of burglaries that usually occur in Winter months."

It involves high-visibility patrols and check-points, reassuring a presence in the local community, education and awareness and victim support. 

Advice from An Garda Síochána to help protect your home

• Turn on some lights [LED bulbs are more energy efficient]
• Use timer switches/ motion detectors
• Lock all doors and windows
• Use a house alarm 
• Store keys away from window
• Don't keep large amounts of cash or jewellery in the house

Gardaí Property App

Gardaí have developed a free mobile Property App which allows users to record their personal belongings.

If the recorded items get stolen, the app allows the user "to use the in-app reporting tool to easily report the theft" to the Gardaí. 

Further crime prevention can be found on the Garda website here. 

Investigations are ongoing into recent the recent burglaries and no further information has been revealed.