Christmas thieves warning to shoppers

POLICE in Holywood are warning the public to be on their guard against thieves this Christmas.

Officers says that although people are less likely to become a victim of crime they should still be on their guard.

“Christmas criminals aren’t always so obvious,” say Holywood PSNI.

“They like to strike when your attention is diverted. Sometimes the victim doesn’t even notice they have had something stolen until they return home.

“When out shopping, always make sure your purse or wallet is not within easy access to pickpockets or light fingered thieves who may attempt to remove it from a handbag.

“Try not to carry large amounts of cash and be especially careful if withdrawing cash from an ATM. Be aware of those around you and make an attempt to hide your PIN as you type it.

“If you are having a particularly hectic shopping day and decide to stop somewhere for refreshments, don’t leave your shopping unattended.

“The opportunist thief will wait until your attention is elsewhere and within seconds your valuable Christmas presents for family and friends could be gone.

“Also if travelling in a vehicle make sure valuables are left out of sight in the boot area to help protect against anyone stealing from your car. If they can’t see them, they don’t know they are there.”