The Number Of Burglaries In Ireland Has Decreased From Last Year

There has been a 31% decline in the number of burglaries nationwide over the past 12 months.

While that must be viewed as good news, gangs of burglars around the country are coming up with subtle new ways to identify homes which may be easy to target.

Tactics such as leaving socks draped on gates or paint on nearby telegraph poles are becoming more common as burglars begin to shun old methods such as targeting homes near motorways and driving conspicuous vehicles such as BMWs, Audis and Volvos.

Now, raiders are more inclined to drive less noticeable vehicles in order to keep suspicion at bay.

Gardaí are also concerned that criminals are using information obtained from social media about which homes may be unoccupied.

Dublin, Limerick, Cork and Waterford have been recognised as prime locations for burglaries.