Vehicle crime in the Fermanagh and Omagh police district rose by 46 per cent in the latest 12-month period, according to PSNI data.

A total of 117 vehicle offences were recorded between July 2025 and June 2026, compared with 80 in the preceding 12 months. The increase of 37 offences covers theft of cars and vans, taking items from vehicles, attempted break-ins, and interfering with vehicles.

Thomas O’Reilly, chair of the Fermanagh and Omagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership, said the rise was a concerning reflection of society and urged motorists to take extra precautions. He advised drivers to lock their vehicles, avoid leaving valuables on display, and store items in the boot where possible. He also highlighted the importance of parking in well-lit areas, particularly at night, and said the partnership could consider awareness campaigns to remind people of the steps they can take.

Superintendent Pete Cunningham, district commander for Fermanagh and Omagh, issued further crime prevention advice. He specifically recommended that people who keep tools in vehicles use high-security locks and, where possible, park in well-lit areas covered by CCTV or other cameras. He also suggested parking with vehicle doors against a wall to make access more difficult.

Anyone whose vehicle has been targeted is advised to contact police as soon as possible and to avoid touching anything inside or around the vehicle to preserve potential forensic evidence. Suspicious activity can be reported to police on 101, while an ongoing emergency should be reported on 999.