Crime gang may be hitting north east farms for jeeps

Louise Walsh
A CRIMINAL gang may be targeting farms in the north west of Meath for Landcruisers and jeeps, after a spate of car thefts in the area in the last eight weeks.
Gardai are investigating a link between the theft of up to 10 vehicles after car keys were taken during break-ins at houses within an eight mile radius in rural Meath.
Most of the break-ins were at farm houses and the thieves seem to be targeting Landcruisers parked outside.
The vehicle owners hit were from the areas from Nobber, Kilmainhamwood, Drumconrath and Lobinstown. 
As investigations continue, Meath Crime Prevention Officer Sgt Dean Kerins is urging anyone who may have noticed suspicious behaviour or unusual activity, in the area to report it to their nearest garda station.
He also advised anyone who has bought a new car or jeep in recent years to consider installing a tracking system.
“Up to ten vehicles have been taken from houses - mostly farm houses - within a certain area in north-west Meath in the last couple of months
“The criminals seem to be particularly interested in Landcruisers and although investigations are continuing, It is likely to be an organised gang taking the jeeps.
“There seems to be a pattern emerging as in all the robberies, entry was gained through breaking the back door lock or cutting a hole in the window to get to the car keys - which are mainly always kept by householders in the kitchen area.”
Sgt Kerins said that it was not the first time this area had been hit for specific car brands
“A number of years ago, Caddy vans were targetted and before that it was 05/06 and 07 registered Landcruisers.
“I’d urge anyone with a newish Landcruiser or jeep to be extra vigilant - keep car keys out of sight and think about installing a tracking system which are inexpensive these days.
“Also if you notice any increased suspicious activity at a garage anywhere, where these vehicles could be getting stripped for parts, please contact your local garda station.
“A security review should be carried out checking all aspects of home security to offer the best protection,” he further advised.  

Here's the view of Meath Chronicle Motoring Correspondent Joe Rayfus

Toyota Landcruisers are in high demand both to genuine second hand car buyers and to car thieves
As a result Landcruisers generally hold their second hand value quite well. 
They are widely considered to be a hugely reliable, well-built 4x4's with all the towing power and space required by everyone from farmers to builders and even large families (in 7 seater guise). 
“Unfortunately they are proving a popular choice among opportunist thieves. We often hear of thefts which involve high tech equipment being used to disable a cars keyless entry system or fishing rods being pushed through letterboxes but unfortunately the majority of Landcruisers which have been stolen from yards or driveways required no such an elaborate scam. 
“It appears the most Landcruiser thefts are the the result of opportunists who deliberately search rural areas in the hope of catching an unsuspecting farmer or home owner. So, what’s the fate of these vehicles you may ask? Well the majority are stripped for their parts which are then exported to eastern Europe or Africa.”