Police warn residents to be vigilant after oil theft in Cargan

Constable Irwin said: “There are steps you can take to make your oil tank more secure including installing locks and restricting access to the area around the tank by planting thorny bushes to provide extra protection.

“Use a good quality, alarmed padlock or install lockable caps with crop-proof fittings to the tank itself and where possible fit hardened flexible casings to any vulnerable fuel hoses, so that they are harder to cut. Anti-tamper devices are available which can be used to raise an alarm and alert your mobile phone when a possible theft occurs.

“People should be on the lookout for any suspicious activity in your local area. Thieves operate at different times of the day and if you notice anything untoward in your neighbourhood, or see unknown vehicles outside premises, note down any important details such as a description or vehicle registration and contact police immediately. Officers will follow up on your call and your prompt information could prevent a crime from occurring.”

Police can be contacted on the non-emergency number 101. In an emergency always dial 999.