Vehicle ‘out of action’ after equipment stolen during Ballyclare Fire Station burglary

Police are appealing for information about the incident which occurred at the Ballynure Road premises a day after the NIFRS hosted an open day to mark 75 years of Ballyclare Fire Station.

Inspector Moore of the PSNI said: "We received a report shortly before 11.30pm last night that a fire station had been broken into. Following initial enquiries we now believe that the break in occurred between 10pm and 11pm.

A side door to a vehicle located inside the premises was prised open and a number of pieces of equipment were stolen, which resulted in the vehicle being out of action for the night.

“This break-in comes after a station open day, where visitors and families were able to view the vital equipment used in emergencies, and it’s very disappointing that Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Services and local firefighters who work tirelessly for their community, would be targeted in such a way that leaves the community without lifesaving equipment.”

Inspector Moore added: “Enquiries are continuing and officers investigating this report are keen to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured CCTV or dashcam footage in the area around the aforementioned times. We would appeal to anyone with any information to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1895 15/10/23.”

Alternatively, a report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form or the charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111