PSNI Advises Keyless Car Owners To Ensure Their Vehicles Safety

Following the theft of a BMW in Armagh in the early hours of Tuesday, 19 March, the PSNI have issued advice to owners of keyless cars on the steps they can take to ensure their vehicles safety.

Detective Sergeant Stewart said: "A report was received that the black BMW X5 Sport was taken from the driveway of a home in the Limestone Square area of the town at around 4.15am.

"The homeowner saw a man dressed in dark clothing with a large backpack on her driveway, and 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.

"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.

"A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/."

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."

For more information visit the Police Service of Northern Ireland's website here: www.psni.police.uk/advice_information/vehicle-purchase-and-protection2/preventing-keyless-car-theft/