Gardaí are investigating a series of thefts from cars across East Donegal towns last weekend.
The incidents were reported in Convoy, Raphoe and Castlefin across Saturday and Sunday.
Criminals used the cover of darkness to prowl residential areas attempting to open vehicles.
In Ballyboe Convoy on Friday night/Saturday morning, cash and a purse containing cards were stolen from an unlocked car parked in the driveway of a home.
On the same night, a number of residents of Sessiagh Park, Castlefin reported attempted thefts from their vehicles. Nothing was stolen from these vehicles.
The vehicles were all unlocked, gardaí say, and entry is believed to have been gained to them between midnight and 6am on Saturday the 20th of January.
The third theft occurred in Raphoe between midnight and 9.30am on Sunday 21st January (Saturday night/Sunday morning). A van was parked at The Common when it was broken into a handbag, a purse, a sum of cash and a number of shopping vouchers were stolen from within. No damage was caused to the van.
Gardaí are appealing to anybody who may have observed any unusual activity/vehicles in the areas to contact Gardaí in Letterkenny on 074-9167100. The Garda Confidential line may be contacted on 1800 666 111.
In light of the thefts, Garda Sean Sweeney has called on the public to make contact with Gardaí if their vehicle was also tampered with in any way on those dates even if nothing was stolen from them.
“We believe that other vehicles may have been entered and the owners have not yet contacted us,” Garda Sweeney said.
“If this is the case we urge them to do so.”
Gardaí are urging people to secure their vehicles and never store valuables in them.
The advice is: “We appeal to everybody to be vigilant. Always report suspicious activity/vehicles/people in your area to Gardaí without delay. Please ensure that your vehicle is locked at all times when left unattended regardless of whether it is parked at home or in a public place. Never leave cash or other valuables in your vehicle. Try to park in a well-lit area if possible.”