FARMERS have been warned not let their guard down after a number of thefts from rural areas in recent weeks.
Limerick Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, reports that in one case, a solar-powered electric fencer was stolen from farmland in Ballymacrory, near Croom.
In another, a farmer near Rourke’s Cross discovered that a chain on his gate had been cut and placed back to look locked.
“In a further incident, overnight between last Tuesday week, 14th October, and Wednesday, 15th October, a burglary was reported on outhouses/sheds on a farm yard in Bruree, where items, including a number of tools were stolen,” Sergeant O’Halloran said.
Meanwhile, on Thursday October 16, a local man disturbed three intruders in his yard in the Crecora area, shortly after 6am after being alerted by his dogs barking. The would-be burglars had gone into an unlocked shed and taken tools, which they left behind as they were disturbed by the homeowner.
All of the crimes mentioned are under investigation by Gardaà and anyone if anyone has any information in relation to any of the incidents, or has been offered any property/tools for sale, Sergeant O’Halloran is urging them to contact local Gardaà or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
“Crimes like this are a reminder that farm security needs regular attention, just like home security,” Sergeant O’Halloran said.
The Henry Street Crime Prevention Officer advised farmers to “check all gates and locks regularly, especially on less-used entrances. Use heavy-duty chains and quality padlocks on sheds and field entrances. Consider installing motion lights or trail cameras, especially in remote yards. Again, marking our property and recording serial numbers and take photos of valuable items like tools, trailers, and quads.”
“Most importantly, report any suspicious activity straight away. Even something that seems minor — like a strange vehicle near a gate — can be valuable information. Neighbourhood and community vigilance is one of the best defences we have in rural areas,” she said.