Gardai investigating thefts of tools and a mobile power-washing unit in County Limerick
A farmer in the Ardpatrick area reported the theft of a mobile power-washing unit from the front yard of the farm
LIMERICK gardai are investigating thefts from rural properties after a power-washing unit was stolen in Ardpatrick and tools were taken from an unoccupied farmhouse in Pallasgreen.
Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer, at Henry Street Garda Station said:
“Between the 29th and 30th of August, a farmer in the Ardpatrick area reported the theft of a mobile power-washing unit from the front yard of the farm. Unfortunately, the power washer had been left unsecured in the yard, which highlights how important it is to secure equipment when it;’ not in use.”
Gardaí in Bruff are investigating the theft and are appealing to anyone who may have information that could assist with the investigation.
Sgt O’Halloran added: “We’re also asking people to be aware if they are offered a valuable power washer or other equipment for sale at what appears to be a particularly low price. If something doesn’t seem right, don’t purchase it and report your concerns to Gardaí.”
Anyone with information can contact their local Garda station or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
There was also an incident in the Pallasgreen area involving tools.
The local crime prevention officer explained: “Between the 24th and 25th of August, a farmer in the Pallasgreen area reported that a shed at an old, unoccupied farmhouse he owns had been broken into. A number of locks were broken and an assortment of hand tools were stolen.”
Gardaí in Pallasgreen are investigating that incident, and are appealing to anyone who may have information to come forward.
Sgt O’Halloran said this highlights the importance of checking older or unoccupied farm buildings regularly. “Even if a building isn’t currently being used, it can still contain items that are attractive to thieves.”
The crime prevention officer offered the following advice for farmers.
“Secure it. It’s very easy to think that something left in a farmyard is safe because you’re on a rural property, but unfortunately that’s not always the case. Power washers, tools, machinery, quads, trailers and other equipment can all be attractive to thieves.
“Where possible, store valuable equipment in a locked building, remove keys from machinery and don’t leave expensive items sitting in an easily accessible location,” continued Sgt O’Halloran.
“I’d also strongly recommend keeping a record of valuable equipment, including the make, model, serial number and photographs. For particularly valuable machinery, tracking devices are also worth considering.”
Sgt O’Halloran concluded: “Knowing your neighbours and keeping communication open is one of the simplest forms of crime prevention. If someone sees an unfamiliar vehicle around a farm or notices suspicious activity, sharing that information with neighbours and reporting it to Gardaí can help us identify patterns.”