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Gardaí have issued a warning to van owners after a rise in thefts where criminals are drilling near locks to break into vehicles.
Tradespeople and drivers are being urged to take extra precautions to protect both their vans and valuable tools.
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Gardaí are highlighting a number of preventative measures, including:
Upgrading to deadlocks or hook locks
Fitting armoured lock plates
Storing tools in a secure, lockable box
Parking in well-lit, CCTV-covered areas
Using alarms & tracking devices
Removing valuables overnight
Gardaí are asking all van owners to be on alert. Criminals are specifically targeting vehicles by drilling near locks, so they urge the public to take steps now to protect themselves.
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Anyone who notices suspicious activity is asked to contact Gardaí immediately by ringing 999 or 112.
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