BY C.J.MCGINLEY
GARDAI have warned householders to be on the alert as a travelling criminal gang is targeting elderly people in isolated areas of Donegal.
The gang have been reported to be operating in different parts of the county offering sales of equipment, furniture, electronic items and services tarmac and kerb laying.
“They are using very aggressive sales techniques,” Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Paul Wallace told the Donegal News.
“We’ve reports of the gang in the Ballyshannon-Donegal area earlier this week and we’re concerned they will hit other areas in the coming days,” he added.
Gardai have appealed to people to become more vigilant for the movement of vans which would be categorised as ‘strange’/ not from the area.
“Registration numbers, colour and if possible make should be forwarded to local District Headquarters stations which are open on a 24/7 basis should be contacted so that this information can be considered for further dissemination amongst the community via the Community Text Alert Scheme which are in operation in conjunction with Community Alert in various areas throughout the County.”
“As the evenings close in we would ask neighbours, relatives and friends of elderly people living alone or in isolated rural areas to keep in contact them by visiting or at least by telephone. A seasonal increase in residential burglaries can be tracked annually over late autumn and into the winter months and accounts for a 15% increase across the 12 calendar months.
Sgt Wallace also warned people only to purchase intruder alarms from reputable dealers, operating from an established business.
“Reputable dealers are registered and will offer a back up service to customers, which is very important in a county like Donegal because of the nature and severity of winter weather, “ he added.
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