22 cars recovered after thefts

Of these four have been lorries and three were tractors, showing the level of theft in rural areas, according to CI Ken Mawhinney.

CI Mawhinney said, in response to a question from Councillor Joan Baird, police have made a number of arrests for these offences. He explained that some reports can relate to incidents where a family member takes a car without permission or is caught driving without insurance.

Incidents of vehicle crime have fallen by 7 per cent between April and December last year.

CI Mawhinney reminded people to continue to take care when leaving their car unattended. “Ensuring that keys are not left in the vehicle, that the vehicle is locked and all valuables are removed or placed out of sight certainly helps in achieving this target,” he added.