Gardaí in Athlone are urging Mass-goers not to leave any valuables on display in their cars, after it emerged that thieves are targeting parked cars outside several churches during service times.
A spokesperson for Athlone Gardaí warned the public not to leave loose change or any kind of valuable property on view in the front or back of their parked vehicle, as opportunistic thieves are on the lookout for cars to break into.
Cash, handbags, phones, and other items were taken from cars parked in church carparks during Mass times in Coosan and Ballinahown last weekend.
Shopping centre carparks are also being targeted.
Anyone with any information that would help gardaí with their enquiries is asked to contact Athlone Gardaí on (090 ) 6498550.
