‘Be vigilant’ in rural areas warns Poots

This follows reports of strangers driving in to yards in the Downshire area.

Mr Poots said: “The message is clear, keep your eyes open and your properties closed. Deter potential criminals at all costs. As some one who has suffered from rural theft myself I can’t encourage and be thankful for community awareness enough. Any one with information that can prevent rural crime or assist the community in stopping it should pass it on to the Police and also make the neighbours and local representatives aware.”