GARDAÍ have warned that imported cars are being targeted after a spate of thefts within weeks.
They are particularly encouraging owners of cars from international markets to check their security features, following three thefts.
These occurred in Inishowen and Letterkenny, resulting in the loss of a Toyota, a Honda quad, and a BMW jeep.
Gardaí also investigating the attempted theft of a vehicle (Toyota Vitz) that occurred at a carpark on the Pearse Road, Letterkenny
The incident occurred between midday on Monday, August 10, and 11am on Wednesday, August 12.
A window of the car was smashed and damage was caused to the ignition barrel.
Gardaí have said: “We appeal to anybody who might remember having observed any suspicious activity, particularly around parked cars in that area between those dates to get in touch with Letterkenny gardaí on 074-9167100.”
“Cars imported from international markets are not automatically manufactured with the same security features as cars manufactured for the European market.”
SECURITY FEATURES
He added: “We urge buyers and owners of vehicles to confirm the security features of vehicles, in particular to check if there is an in-built immobiliser and to consider additional security options.
“Buyers should check the security features of their vehicles and make decisions relating to augmenting security. For cars without an immobiliser, an additional steering wheel lock or chain should be considered.”
They are also investigating a theft of a red Honda 520 quad (2020 model) in Clonmany.
The incident occurred in the area of Dunaff between 3pm Sunday, August 16, and 1pm on Wednesday, August 19.
The vehicle was stolen from the rear of the property.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have observed any type of suspicious activity, people or vehicles in that area between those dates to get in touch with gardaí.
A Garda spokesperson said: “If anybody can offer relevant information in relation to the theft of the quad or in relation to its current whereabouts, we ask them to get in touch with gardaí in Buncrana on 074-9320540 or via the Garda Confidential Line.”
A grey BMW X5 jeep with a registration no. ’05 D 86983’ was also stolen from a yard on Bunagee Lane, Letterkenny.
The incident occurred between 4pm on Friday, August 21, and 3am on Saturday, August 22.
A Garda spokesperson said: “We appeal to anybody who may have relevant information in relation to this theft or in relation to the current location of the stolen jeep to get in touch with gardaí in Letterkenny on 074-9167100.”