Officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland were part of a cross-border operation recently that targeted criminal activity passing through the south Armagh and Newry areas. The operation took place on Wednesday the 28th of June last in conjunction with An Garda Síochána, as part of the Joint Agency task Force.
Officers from Newry CID, Neighbourhood, Interceptor Team, and Tactical Support Groups were involved in the patrols. Adam Corner, Neighbourhood Inspector for South Armagh, said the operation using Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology was focused on targeting and stopping vehicles and individuals linked to criminality.
He added the focus was to target criminals that both police forces suspected of being involved in a number of recent commercial and domestic burglaries where high-value items were stolen, and at those involved in various traffic and drug-related offences.
Inspector Corner highlighted how, with domestic burglaries in border areas, criminals target properties and commercial premises so they can use the border as a quick getaway route into the Republic of Ireland subsequently evading the justice process.
"Burglaries in the Newry, Mourne and Down district have risen in the past three months and the aim of the recent operation was to thwart this activity and protect local communities," he continued.
"As part of the operation, over 20 trailers were stopped and checked as were over 300 cars and other vehicle types. A 34-year-old man, who was wanted by police for cross-border crime, was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences, including three counts of theft and grievous bodily harm.
"He has since been charged and has appeared before Newry Magistrates Court." Meanwhile, the effort was one of a number that will be conducted in the border region by the PSNI and An Garda Síochána over the coming months.
Inspector Corner highlighted the negative impact that cross-border crime has on local communities. He is advising homeowners on both side of the border to exercise vigilance and report suspicious activity to the police immediately.
Local crime prevention officers are also available on the PSNI's non-emergency number - 101. To view video, please click on the following link:
