Gardaí in Clare warn stolen license plates may be used by car thieves

An Garda Síochána have issued a warning to the public to be vigilant following the theft of registration plates in Clare.

Gardaí in Ennis are investigating the theft of registration plates from a 3 Series black BMW in the Doora Industrial Estate on the Quin Road between 8pm on last Thursday, April 25 and 2pm on Friday, April 26.

Garda believe that car thieves are fitting false number plates to stolen cars "to allow them to move around undetected".

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"The process is straightforward," a statement from gardaí said.

"Car thieves look for a car that is the same model and colour as the one they intend to steal, make a note of its registration number and then they do one of two things; have false plates made, without having to prove whether they own the car or provide any form of identification, or steal registration plates from a vehicle that is the same make, model and colour of the vehicle they intend to steal."

"This is often done before they steal a car, so that they can switch the plates immediately."

Gardaí have called on anyone who is the owner of a 3 series black BMW to "be extra vigilant over the coming weeks", and "ensure that it is locked, keep your key away from the front door and if possible, park your vehicle in behind another vehicle or in a manner that makes it very difficult for it to be stolen".

Anyonw who observes a unfamiliar 3 series black BMW in their area or in an unusual location can contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 6848100, the emergency services number, 999/112 or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.