The Winter Phase of Operation Thor saw a 23% decrease nationally in burglaries during November and December 2017, according to provisional figures from An Garda Siochana.
Operation Thor is a multi-strand approach to tackling burglaries that was introduced in November 2015. According to officials, it has an emphasis on preventing crime in the first place and actively targets organised crime gangs and repeat offenders.
Officials say burglaries typically surge by around 20% during the winter months. However since the implementation of Operation Thor’s Winter Phase, burglaries have decreased around the country.
Assistant Commissioner, Special Crime Operations, John O’Driscoll said: “We are particularly aware of the vulnerability of older people for whom a burglary can be a very traumatic experience, and we are determined to identify and apprehend those who exploit their vulnerability,”
The south eastern region saw a 40% decrease in burglaries between December and October. The eastern region, a 29% decrease.
There was a 25% decrease in the western region, and a 22% decrease in the southern region.
Additionally, 18% less burglaries were reported in the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR), and 15% less were reported in the northern region.
The public also has a role in preventing burglaries. According to Gardai, over 50% of burglaries take place through the front or back door, so it’s important for people to Lock Up and Light Up.
“The positive start to the Winter Phase of Operation Thor is encouraging, and we intend (on) achieving more success throughout the remaining months,” said Assistant Commissioner O’Driscoll.
