West Belfast Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Call from local community activists to guard against crime

Published: 28 November, 2009

An increase in anti-social behaviour has led to calls for increased vigilance in the lower Andersonstown area. There have been various reports of an increase in car crime and house break-ins in the past month and local community activists are encouraging people to stay alert in protecting themselves and their property.

Sinn Féin representative and local resident's group member Pól Deeds says the Glen Road has seen an increase in incidents.

Mr Deeds said:

''There has been an increase in the anti-social and criminal behaviour in the area. A large crowd who had been drinking gathered on the Glen Road at Gransha two weeks ago and began a free-for-all. Several older residents were very frightened and the PSNI were called.

''There have also been a number of attempts to break into houses to acquire car keys. People should keep their doors locked at all times.

''Some people, especially those with PVC doors, have a habit of leaving the door unlocked until late at night. In one recent incident car criminals entered a house on the front of the Glen Road in the early evening, with lots of people about, in order to take the keys out of the front door. We would urge people to please keep your doors locked, particularly coming up to the holiday period when criminals are looking even more for an easy target.''