Limerick: Opportunistic Burglars Steal Two BMWs Using Stolen Keys

"Fishing" for Car Keys: A Growing Trend

Limerick gardaí have issued a stark warning to homeowners following two similar burglaries in the Dooradoyle and Annacotty areas. In both instances, the thieves were highly opportunistic, specifically targeting residential properties with the sole intention of stealing vehicle keys from inside the house to subsequently drive away with the high-value cars parked outside.

This method of car theft is becoming increasingly common, as modern vehicles with advanced immobiliser systems are difficult to steal without the original keys. Criminals now find it easier to quietly break into a home to locate the keys rather than attempting to hotwire the car itself.

Dooradoyle: Grey BMW 520 Stolen

The first incident occurred in the Bellevue estate on Fr Russell Road, Dooradoyle. According to Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, crime prevention officer at Henry Street garda station, the homeowner discovered that her property had been entered overnight, sometime between midnight and 7:00 am on June 4. The intruders managed to locate her car keys, which had been left in the kitchen. They subsequently used the keys to steal her grey BMW 520. Fortunately, the vehicle was later recovered in the nearby Rosbrien area.

Annacotty: White BMW 420 Taken

Just days later, a second, strikingly similar burglary took place in Annacotty. Overnight, between June 7 and June 8, suspects gained entry to a house at Willow Drive in the Bloomfield estate. Gardaí believe the intruders may have simply walked in through an unlocked rear door. Once inside, they easily found the vehicle keys and stole a white BMW 420 directly from the driveway. This vehicle was also later located and recovered, this time on the Old Cork Road.

Gardaí in Castleconnell are actively investigating this second incident and are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Annacotty area, or who has information regarding the movements of the white BMW 420, is urged to contact them or call the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

Garda Advice: Secure Your Home and Keys

In light of these events, Sgt O’Halloran has reiterated crucial crime prevention advice for all homeowners to prevent opportunistic crimes.

• Lock Up: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked before going to bed or leaving the house. Double-check rear and side doors, as these are common entry points.
• Hide Your Keys: Never leave car keys, house keys, or wallets in obvious places like kitchen counters, hallway tables, or hanging on hooks near the front door. Keep them out of sight and well away from doors and windows where they could be "fished" out using a hook or wire.
• Layer Your Security: Consider investing in layered security measures, such as a visible house alarm, motion-sensor security lighting, and CCTV cameras. These act as significant deterrents to potential burglars.
• Be Vigilant: Stay alert to your surroundings and report any suspicious individuals or vehicles in your neighbourhood to the gardaí immediately.