Issue Date: 01/02/2021
Gardaí are appealing for information arising from two trailer thefts which occurred in Co Mayo over the past week.
Gardaí in Ballyhaunis are investigating after a car trailer was stolen from a farmyard close to Lavallyroe/Cloonfad in Ballyhaunis.
The incident occurred sometime between 6pm on January 26 and 11am on January 27.
The trailer is distinctive and is described as an 8 foot by 4.5 foot Killorglin two cow cattle trailer with stainless steel dipped sides and a white roof. There is a loading door to the rear and a side door to the front. It also has a jockey wheel and brake to the front and bears a Killorglin logo on the side to the front.
Meanwhile, Gardaí in Ballinrobe are seeking assistance following a second trailer theft which occurred sometime between the hours of 5.30pm on January 21, 2021 and 6.30am on January 22 in the vicinity of Ballynew, Ballinrobe.
The trailer in this theft was an 8 x 4 Aerlite cow box trailer.
Gardaí are interested in speaking with anyone who may have been in the area of either of these incidents and who may have video footage, including dash cam footage, covering this period of time.
Similarly anyone who may have seen trailers matching this description on the dates in question, or who may have seen trailers like this offered for sale in recent days to make contact with Gardaí.
Crime Prevention Officer Sgt Tony Cosgrove has this advice for farmers on how to secure their property to ensure it is not vulnerable to theft.
"As we hit spring it is important to not to leave trailers, quads, tractors, power tools, strimmers, chainsaws or any other property out in fields or away from the home. Ensure they are locked in a secure garage. It is also important to photograph and property mark valuable equipment and tools with a unique marking which will ensure that these items can be traced back to you in the event of a theft.
"The use of CCTV around farmyards and large machinery is also recommended, and having good lighting around the farm buildings where items of value are stored is also another deterrent” Sgt Cosgrove said.
5 Top Tips to secure your farm • Restrict access to your yard, install and lock gates • Ensure your yard is well lit • Take pictures of your machinery with your unique ID features • Sign up for Community Text Alerts • Always report farm thefts to An Garda Síochána.
