The probe follows a string of robberies in the area
The PSNI is investigating the theft of power tools worth thousands of pounds after a string of robberies in Co Down.
Police say valuable equipment was reported to be stolen between December 2 and 3 from the Sycamore Court area and the Old Park Road in Drumaness.
A van was also robbed of its tools on the Loughisland Road, Downpatrick in recent days.
It comes after similar crimes were reported in four locations across Kilkeel, Saintfield and Crossgar.
The probe follows a string of robberies in the area
News Catch Up – Thursday 4 December
Local Inspector Paul Connolly warned criminality of this nature is common around the festive period and advised equipment owners how deter thieves.
“Unfortunately at this time of year we do see an increase in this kind of criminality with thieves focusing their attentions on what they see as easy targets, and sadly that includes our local tradesmen and women, and small business owners,” the senior officer explained.
“I would encourage those who own or keep quantities of tools, materials or anything that a criminal might consider of value to steal, to please consider adopting some preventative measures and make it as hard as possible for thieves to steal what’s yours.
“Make sure to lock away hand tools when they are not in use. This will not only prevent the theft of the tools themselves but it also means they can’t be used by a thief to gain entry to your own property or vehicle.
“Consider investing in high-security locks for both vehicles and buildings where tools, equipment or materials are stored.
“Mark yours with a property marking kit and register them on an approved database. If it’s the case that you must store tools in a vehicle, try to park in a well-lit area, preferably with CCTV or other camera coverage, or park with rear or side access doors against a wall to prevent access.
“You can find more crime prevention advice on our website. You can also request a visit from one of our local Crime Prevention Officers.”