ALERT: Gardai issue warning to Clare motorists following theft of car from outside house

Gardai are appealing for information on the whereabouts of a car which was stolen from outside a private residence in south east Clare.

The property - at Cloonomra, Clonlara - was broken into sometime last Thursday between 1am and 6am.

"The thief forced a rear door in an effort to get inside. Once inside, he stole a set of car keys that were left in the kitchen. He used the car keys to steal the family car which was parked outside," said Garda John Finnerty.

The vehicle - a blue Skoda Superb hatchback model - has not been recovered.

Gardai at Mayorstone in Limerick city are investigating the incident and they are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

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They are also advising motorists not to keep their car keys in a safe place overnight.

"We would advise all car owners not to leave their car keys where they could be easily accessible to criminals in the event of a burglary. When retiring for the night bring the car keys upstairs with you. We have noticed a recent trend where many criminals break into houses, and then steal both family cars that are parked outside. Don’t make it easy for criminals. Take as many crime prevention precautions as you can," said Garda Finnerty.

Mayorstone garda station can be contacted at (061) 456980.