BY C.J.MCGINLEY
A GANG has struck in what is believed to be the first identity theft scam of its kind in Donegal. Up to eleven cars were broken into and personal identity data stolen, in has been described as a very ‘sinister’ development in Letterkenny.
Tax books, driving licences, insurance data and other personal identity items were stolen in the incident at Glenwood Park.
The news was confirmed yesterday by a local public representative who has described it as ‘scandalous’ and a source of worry for the victims.
“Not only was their personal identity documents stolen, but it could well be the documents will be used again for other criminality,” Sinn Féin councillor Gerry McMonagle told the Donegal News.
“It is a new development. I’ve never heard of identities like this being stolen on such a scale before. The gang obviously targeted this area and all they seemed to be interested in was personal data which they will no doubt pass off in identity fraud,” he said.
“I will be raising this serious issue with senior gardai over the coming days. The stolen documents could turn up anywhere or be used as bona fida data in some scam or another. It is very worrying for people to know somebody else has their personal data,” Cllr McMonagle added.
The vehicles were broken into on Thursday night-Friday night, but the scale of the ‘hit’ has only really become known over the weekend.
“A car radio and some tools were also stolen from a van but locals feel this was just a cover for the real purpose of the crime- sourcing personal identities,” Cllr McMonagle said.
“Once again, it brings into sharp focus how serious the policing issue is becoming in Donegal. After a crime spree in Raphoe and Convoy last Monday, it shows gangs are targeted areas of the county for all sorts of criminality. You have to wonder where is the deterrent?,” Cllr McMonagle added.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)