Concerns over rising metal theft in Magherafelt area

This comes after just last week, copper thieves in Maghera breached a security fence to gain entry to a house on Station Road.

Entry was gained via a front window and a large amount of damage was caused and large amounts of new copper stolen.

Cllr Martin Kearney said: “We are aware of burglaries where copper fittings have been stripped out of vacant houses, partially completed houses and even finished homes. As well as the value of the lost fittings, these thefts frequently lead to serious water damage to the rest of the property. I would urge all residents to be vigilant over the winter.”

PSNI Chief Inspector Alan Hutton states: “Police advice is to secure your home as fully as possible. Home owners should ensure that all windows and doors are locked when the premises are empty and ask neighbours to keep an eye on your property if you know you are going to be away for a while.

“Landlords should check vacant properties regularly and where possible turn off the water supply and remove the tank until the property becomes occupied. Make regular checks of your rental property and ask a neighbour or someone living close by to check the doors and windows every so often.”