‘Large sum of cash’ stolen from car as Cork Gardaí warn of estate-prowling thieves

Cork: Car owners in Cork are being warned to be extra careful. There have been reports of thieves hitting up cars in the area, especially those left unlocked.

Garda Frances Murphy from Bandon Garda Station is urging everyone to keep an eye out for these crooks. They’re prowling around public car parks and housing estates, looking for easy targets.

Just yesterday, a couple of cars were broken into in West Cork. One of them was left unlocked, and the thieves made off with a large amount of cash. It’s a real wake-up call for all of us.

Garda Murphy said, “We keep saying this, but it’s happening again. Two incidents were reported just yesterday.” She stressed the importance of locking your car and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

If you have something valuable, like a laptop or handbag, stash it in the boot before you park. And don’t do it where anyone can see you.

She also mentioned that certain groups have been going around Cork towns at night, checking for unlocked cars. Last year, places like Carrigaline and Douglas were hit hard, and it’s spreading to other areas too.

These thieves are quick. They can check dozens of cars in just a few minutes. The best advice? Lock your car and take your keys with you.

Gardaí are also reminding people not to leave their cars running outside while they warm up. There have been cases of cars being stolen right from driveways.

One person shared that they left their car running for just a few minutes while they went inside. They even had a doorbell camera, but that didn’t stop the thieves.

So, even though the cold snap is over, it’s a good reminder to stay vigilant this winter.