Latest crime figures - thefts from shops in Kilkenny up 40%

Thefts from shops in Kilkenny has risen dramatically according to the most recent crime statistics revealed at Monday’s meeting of the Joint Policing Committee.

The figures relate to the time period from January 1 to May 30, 2023 and show that there were 230 reported thefts from shops. This is an increase of 40% year on year. In 2022, there were 138 incidents of thefts from shops during the same period.

A senior garda delivering the presentation of crime figures told members of the JPC that gardaí were adopting ‘a proactive approach’ in relation to tackling this type of crime.

Chief Superintendent Anthony Pettit said that the number of patrols have increased in recent months and acknowledged that there are a number of significant anti-social behaviour incidents happening ‘that are being addressed’.

The chief supt also added that the City Safe operation is ongoing in Kilkenny City.

Gangs on bikes

Cllr Eugene McGuinness said that ‘thefts from shops have gone up considerably’ adding that there are still gangs going up and down the streets on bikes.

Cllr Eugene McGuinness added that he believed young children were purposely been used to carry out crimes.

“It is endlessly frustrating and retailers are having to ask members of staff to man the doors,”he said.

Chief Supt Pettit said he was aware that some of the people using the bikes and engaging in anti-social behaviour are under 12.

“They should not be out and not be supervised,” he said.

Councillor John Coonan said that; ‘despite the best efforts of gardaí young people are running in and out of shops causing every bit of trouble.”

“There are consequences for the shops and the customers,” he said and asked the senior gardaí present at the meeting if the current measures are effective or what needs to be done.

“Young people are being used and the consequences are far less and their families couldn’t care less,” added Cllr Coonan.

Chief Supt Pettit said that ‘Kilkenny has a good name and we will make sure it continues’.

“Thefts from shops can be difficult when dealing with young people but we will attempt to resolve it,”  he said adding that he was satisfied that there is garda visibility in the city centre.