Warning by Limerick gardai after farms are targeted by thieves

GARDAI in Limerick have warned farmers to be on their guard after a number of criminal damage and theft incidents in rural areas.

Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer, said in one case a solar-powered electric fencer was stolen from farmland in Ballymacrory, near Croom. 

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“In another, a farmer near O’Rourke’s Cross in Bruree discovered that a chain on his gate had been cut and placed back to look locked.  

“In a further incident, overnight between October 14 - 15, a burglary was reported on outhouses / sheds on a farm yard in Bruree, where items, including a number of tools were stolen,” said Sgt O’Halloran.

The sergeant said on the following morning - October 16 - a man disturbed three intruders in his yard in the Crecora area, shortly after 6.15am. 

They had gone into an unlocked shed and taken tools, which they left behind as they were disturbed by the homeowner. He had been alerted by his dogs barking. 

“All of the crimes mentioned are under investigation by gardai and if anyone has any information in relation to any of the above incidents, or has been offered any property / tools for sale, please contact your local gardai or indeed the Garda Confidential Line on 1800666111,” said Sgt O’Halloran.

She said crimes like these are a reminder that farm security needs regular attention, just like home security.

“Firstly, 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. 

“Mark your property, record serial numbers and take photos of valuable items like tools, trailers, and quads.

“And, perhaps 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,” said Sgt O’Halloran.

This was the message she and colleagues were spreading at a garda-led farm safety and security event in Kilmallock Mart on bank holiday Monday.