One arrest after number of break-ins in Cookstown area

The PSNI said one arrest has been made following a number of reports from the Coolnafranky Park area - it is thought there were 11.

Police have urged homeowners to routinely review their security with regard to garden sheds and outdoor equipment, to ensure sheds are locked and boundaries are secure.

“Try and protect vulnerable areas such as windows, fences, boundary walls and drainpipes and use well positioned external lighting to make your garden less inviting for thieves,” they said.

If you notice any suspicious activity in your local area please report it to police on the 101 number.

They have offered a number of simple tips to secure property:

• To help you make sure your garden is safe and your shed is secure. Try and protect vulnerable areas such as windows, fences, boundary walls and drainpipes and use well positioned external lighting to make your garden less inviting for thieves.

• Keep your shed in good condition. Fit a closed shackle padlock to the door. Fittings should be bolted through the door and any screws concealed. Fit meshes or grilles to the windows and invest in an alarm.

• Make sure that large items such as bicycles are chained together as it is much more difficult for a thief to carry away a lot of large items. Visibly mark the contents in the shed. Take notes of serial numbers and photograph expensive equipment.

• Ladders should be locked to a secure fixture in the shed or garage so they cannot be used to access upstairs windows.