Sligo-Leitrim records nation’s largest decrease in burglaries amid national rise

The Sligo-Leitrim Garda division has seen a 19 percent decrease in burglaries, the biggest decrease in Garda divisions nationwide

The figures have been released by PhoneWatch, a home and business security company, who analysed the data.

There were 132 burglaries reported in the Sligo-Leitrim division over the past 12 months.

PhoneWatch analysed figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Irish Crime Statistics Report.

The data reveals that 20 out of 27 Garda divisions have experienced an increase in burglaries. 

Among these, the neighbouring Roscommon and Longford division saw a significant 55 percent rise, with 257 reported burglaries.

Nationally, burglaries have increased by nine percent with 9,858 incidents reported.

In 2023, a total of 839 crimes were reported across Leitrim's seven Garda stations, with five of the stations recording a decrease in crime.

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Carrick-on-Shannon councillor Sean McGowan has praised the figure, calling it a positive sign. Cllr McGowan believes the decrease in burglaries is due to increased vigilance within the community.

“There are text alert groups that are sent out through the Gardaí and most communities and clubs have WhatsApp groups that send out warnings,” he said.

“People are vigilant then and watch out. If anyone sees anything suspicious I’d always encourage them to go to the Gardaí straight away.

“The Gardaí are certainly visible and if they see anything, they’re on top of it,” he added.

PhoneWatch states that winter is a prime time for burglaries, with longer nights and shorter days.

PhoneWatch advises homeowners to enhance their security by locking all windows and doors and avoiding hiding keys under mats or other obvious spots. 

They recommend leaving a light on when away to create the illusion that someone is home. 

Additionally, valuables should be kept out of plain sight, and neighbours can be asked to collect post and bins during absences to maintain the appearance of someone being home. PhoneWatch also highlights the importance of installing a 24/7 monitored home alarm system to ensure protection, whether residents are at home or away.

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