Police have asked keyless car owners to take steps to ensure their vehicle’s safety after a BMW was taken from a driveway in Armagh in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday).
At approximately 4:15am, a 2015 black BMW X5 Sport was taken from the property in the vicinity of Limestone Square – just off the Rock Road.
The vehicle is bearing the plates DL58UCY.
It is reported that the homeowner saw a man dressed in dark clothing with a large backpack in her driveway. She realised her vehicle was missing just before the man made off on foot.
The owner still had both sets of keys to the vehicle in her possession.
Police have said the incident is ongoing and enquiries are continuing.
Detective Sergeant Stewart commented: “We would appeal to anyone who may have noticed suspicious behaviour in the area, or who may have captured relevant doorbell or CCTV footage, to make contact with police on 101. We would also appeal to anyone who may have seen a vehicle matching the above description, or been offered it for sale in suspicious circumstances, to contact us.”
Detective Sergeant Stewart continued: “If you are a keyless car owner, we would remind you of the following advice to help prevent you becoming a victim of theft:
- “When at home, please keep your car key (and spare key) away from the car, doors and windows.
- “Put your keys in a signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag.
- “Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used.
- “Use a steering wheel lock or car alarm.
- “Park in your garage overnight. If you don’t have a garage park as close to your home as possible.”
Also voicing concern at the theft was DUP councillor for Armagh Scott Armstrong, who said: “It obviously represents a loss to the owners of the vehicle and I would echo the plea by local police for anyone in the area who may have witnessed any suspicious activity to contact the PSNI immediately, quoting serial number 103 of 19/03/24.
“Vehicle theft is an issue in many areas of the province and it is clear that there are networks of criminals engaging in this crime and of course it only brings cost, inconvenience and a sense of fear and worry to the victims of such theft. Hopefully those behind this type of criminality can be apprehended.”
A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.
