Thieves drill into vans in spate of tool thefts in Limerick
One tradesman reported parking his van overnight in a hotel car park on the outskirts of Limerick city, and when he returned in the morning, he noticed a side-door warning light
GARDAÍ are warning tradesmen to secure their vans following a string of overnight thefts in Limerick, where thieves drilled into locks to steal tools.
“Unfortunately, we’ve seen a number of incidents within the last week,” said Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer, Limerick.
“On the night of the 6th of August, one tradesman reported parking his van overnight in a hotel car park on the outskirts of Limerick city, and when he returned in the morning, he noticed a side-door warning light.
“On checking, he discovered a hole had been drilled into the panel, with work tools stolen from the van.” Sgt O’Halloran added that another tradesman had his van parked overnight in a different hotel car park on the same night. “He later discovered a cut in the panel of his side door and found that tools were stolen. In both cases, thieves drilled into the lock mechanism, gaining entry very quickly.”
The crime prevention officer is recommending tradesmen to add deadlocks or hook locks to their vans which are much harder to drill or force open. “You can also fit armoured lock protection plates over vulnerable areas.”
Sgt O'Halloran also advises them to store their tools in a locked cage or box inside the van, and mark them with identifiable details. “Fit alarms or trackers that alert you if the van is tampered with.” She said extra security steps makes a van less attractive to thieves. “When parking, choose well-lit, busy areas.
Sgt O'Halloran concluded: “If possible, back the van up to a wall so rear doors can’t be opened, and park under CCTV. Slam locks, which lock automatically when the door is closed, are also a good option.”