Investigation launched after cars stolen and burned out in Waterford
Cars were stolen and burned out in Waterford over the weekend
The Gardaí in Waterford have launched an investigation after a number of vehicles were taken in the city over the weekend.
The thefts occurred on Saturday, July 20, and according to a spokesperson for the force a number of thefts took place.
"This type of offence is not something we see too often in the city," said the spokesperson.
"So we are appealing to people to be extra vigilant and particularly to any taxi drivers who may have seen these cars being driven in the city on Friday night [into] Saturday morning," she added.
The first vehicle was taken from Rockenham, in Ferrybank, sometime after 2.30am on Saturday, July 20. The car, an '11C...' registered blue Toyota Vitz Hatchbatch, was was discovered burnt out in the John’s Park area of Waterford City later that morning, at around 7am.
The second vehicle was taken from the Castlegrange area, in Williamstown, sometime early on Saturday morning. It was an '07MO...' registered white Toyota hatchback. It was also discovered burnt out in the John’s Park area of the city at 7am.
"We had a third attempt to steal a vehicle close at Waterpark Apartments, which are close to UHW," said the spokesperson.
"There was damage to the ignition in this instant, but the vehicle was not stolen," she added.
All three vehicles have been taken for technical examination and CCTV footage has been obtained.
"If you live in these areas and have any information that can assist Gardaí please contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 391620 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111," said the spokesperson.
With regard to practical advice to vehicle owners, particularly those who don't have immobilisers fitted, the Garda spokesperson said they can be retro-fitted.
Alternatively, motorists are advised to consider getting a steering lock, visible from the outside of the car and of a type that can't be removed easily or quickly.
"These are readily from local motor factors or online," said the Garda.
Anyone who observes a crime being committed is asked to phone 112 or 999.
"If you have any information, you can also use the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111," said the spokesperson.
More details are also available on the www.garda.ie and the Garda Síochána Waterford Facebook Page.
