Gardaí have appealed for any information
12:22, 12 Jul 2026Updated 12:25, 12 Jul 2026
The incident happened at Clonea Beach(Image: Google Maps)
Beach-goers are being warned to protect their valuables as half the country floods Irish beaches during the hot weather. With huge crowds on the beach, people are being reminded to stay sensible when it comes to keeping their belongings safe.
Gardaí have launched an investigation after a “number of mobile phones” were reported as being robbed from a beach last Sunday. The Irish Mirror reports that theft incidents occurred at Clonea Beach, a popular swimming spot in Dungarvan, Co Waterford.
Appealing to anyone with any information to contact Dungarvan Garda Station, a Garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí at Dungarvan are investigating the theft of a number of mobile phones from Clonea Beach on Sunday, 5 July. If anyone noticed anything or has some information, they are asked to contact Dungarvan Garda Station 058-48600.”
As well as minding your belongings while on the beach, Gardaí have urged anyone enjoying the coast during warm weather to ‘Park Smart.’ According to Gardaí, 60% of thefts from vehicles at locations associated with outdoor activities occur during the summer months. Millions of euros worth of valuables are stolen from vehicles across Ireland every year.
The most likely time for thefts to occur is between 2 pm and 7 pm, and Gardaí have said catalytic converters, cash, electronics, jewellery, and tools are among the items most targeted by opportunistic thieves.
You can also park smart by making sure you park legally. After absolute traffic chaos at Cork’s most popular beaches yesterday, concerns were raised over a high volume of cars and vans parked illegally, which could block access to emergency services.
It is critical that ambulance and emergency vehicle access is kept clear at all times, and drivers who attempt to park on roads, footpaths, grass verges, or in any location that could obstruct access may impede emergency response.
This morning, Cork County Beachguards reminded motorists: “Park responsibly at the beaches around County Cork, keeping Emergency Bays free and not obstructing other road users or traffic flow.”
As part of Coastal Watch, Gardaí have asked the public to report any suspicious activity in a bid to crack down on all sorts of crime.
Locals in Cork’s rural and coastal communities are already in the habit of looking out for one another, with any reports of strange or unusual activity often doing the rounds in local WhatsApp and social media groups. Gardaí are now encouraging those already keeping a close eye on their localities to report this information to them, as even a seemingly inconsequential tip can help.