Three hundred burglaries in Mayo in past 12 months

IN the 12-month period up to the end of September 2015, some 28,407 burglary and related offences were recorded nationwide (CSO 2015). Of these, 308 burglaries were recorded in the Mayo Garda Division, a decrease of 16 on the previous 12-month period.

Commenting on the number of burglaries, PhoneWatch managing director Eoin Dunne said: “We welcome the decrease in burglary in Mayo. It is an indication that crime prevention initiatives are working. However, 308 burglaries were still recorded in the 12-month period up to the end of September.

“We are urging all householders to remain vigilant, especially in the run up to Christmas, which is peak season for opportunist burglars.”

According to data released by PhoneWatch’s Alarm Receiving Centre, burglars – surprisingly - are most likely to try and gain access to homes through the front door. Looking at alarm activations monitored by PhoneWatch, 50% were caused by attempted front and back door intrusions.

Crimestoppers, together with the gardaí and PhoneWatch, has launched a campaign to combat the problem of burglary.