Farmers’ crime concern
Farmers in the area are being urged to remain vigilant amid concerns over the rising tide of rural crime.
Ulster Farmers’ Union President Ian Marshall stressed that rural crime was becoming more and more of an issue, this following confirmation from rural insurer NFU Mutual that the value of stolen goods from farms amounted to £3.9 million in 2013, an increase of 15% on 2012.
“The rural crime figures indicate this is a major issue which must be dealt with head on,” he said. “The unfortunate reality is that farmers are having valuable livestock and machinery stolen on a regular basis, which is having a devastating impact on their businesses and families.
“The cost of livestock theft in particular has risen by a staggering 25% across the UK as thieves target sheep and cattle.”