POLICE are urging the public to be vigilant following a spate of burglaries in Newry and South Down yesterday.

During the day a number of houses were entered and ransacked. Houses were situated in Violet Hill Avenue and Hollywood Grove, Newry, Dallan Road and Moygannon Road, Warrenpoint, Newry Road, Hilltown and Levallyreagh Road and Horner’s Lane, Rostrevor.

A black Volkswagen Golf was seen in the area of Levallyreagh Road around the time of the burglary.

This car was later located in Lisburn.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Commander, Superintendent Paul Reid said: “We responded to reports of these burglaries quickly yesterday and are investigating a link between all of them.

“We were able to circulate a description of a car seen close to one of the burglaries and later locate this vehicle in Lisburn.

“This car has now been seized and will be examined for investigative and forensic opportunities.

“I would like to reassure the South Down community that we are making every effort to find those responsible for these crimes.

“I would also ask the public to remain vigilant.

“Please continue to lock all your windows and doors and make your home secure.

“If you notice any type of suspicious behaviour in your local area please phone us straight away on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

“If anyone has information in relation to the incidents yesterday or the movements of the Black Volkswagen Golf, please contact detectives in Ardmore on 101.”

If you prefer to provide information without giving your details you can contact the independent Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.