Alert issued after burglary

The house at Rossnagalliagh was targeted on Thursday. (File pic)

The local Galliagh community has been urged to be vigilant following a night-time burglary in the area.

It is understood residents were asleep upstairs when the burglars targeted a home in the Rossnagalliagh area.

A PSNI spokesman confirmed yesterday: “Police are investigating after a report of a burglary at a house in the Rossnagalliagh area of Derry overnight onThursday, October 27.

“It was reported that sometime during the night entry was gained to the property and a wallet and purse stolen.

“Police are appealing for anyone with any information about the incident to contact officers in Strand Road Police Station on 101 quoting reference number 508 of 28 October.

“Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney has advised local people to take precautions in light of the incident.

“I would advise people to lock their doors and to be careful and remain vigilant around the area.

“I would also ask that people look out for their neighbours.”

He added that anyone who felt vulnerable following the burglary could avail of a home safety visit through the Shantallow Community Residents Association and the Policing and Community Safety Partnership.

“If people wish to, they can contact me or any SDLP office in the Foyle area and we will signpost them in the right direction,” he said.

The incident at Rossnagalliagh was highlighted by local group Galliagh Community Empowerment.

In a statement issued via the group’s Facebook page, they said: “We would urge everyone to lock up well and look out for there neighbours and contact us if you are unsure about anything.”

They also appealed for information about those who were responsible.

Galliagh Community Empowerment have also hit out after wheelie bins were set alight in the Galliagh Park area of the estate and have launched an appeal for information on these incidents.

They said: “What do people get out of burning pensioners wheelie bins? More than likely this person will have to fork out a few pounds for a new bin and maybe they might not even be able to afford that.

“Please check where your children are and what they are doing.

“This antisocial activity needs to stop immediately,” he concluded.