Substantial number of sheep stolen from land in Coleraine area

Police are appealing for information following a report that sheep were stolen from land in the Rhee Lane area of Coleraine on Tuesday, November 28.

Chief Inspector McIldowney said: “We received a report that a substantial number of sheep, last seen on Monday, 27th November were missing from farmland in the Rhee Lane area.

“When officers reviewed the entrance to the farmland, it appears the rope securing the gate that leads onto Rhee Lane has been cut and the gate was left wide open, enabling the release of flock.  

“This is a huge financial loss to the owner responsible for the sheep and we would appeal to anyone with information, or who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area, to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 934 of 28/11/23.  If you spotted any unknown vehicles, such as trailers, please do get in touch.

“Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop rural crime.”

EAST Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden has urged farmers and others in the agri-food business to be vigilant after a flock of sheep was stolen south of Coleraine. The sheep were stolen from land near Rhee Lane near Agivey on Tuesday (November 28). It follows the theft of 11 calves belonging to a teenage girl in Claudy in October.

“This theft has caused serious financial damage for the owner of the flock,” said Ms Sugden.

“It appears that this kind of crime is increasing in prevalence, so farmers and others in the agri-food business should both be extra careful with their own animals, but also be on the look-out for any suspicious offerings of animals for sale.

“The police are investigating, but anyone who was in the area who saw something suspicious should contact the police on 101. “People in this sector are hurting enough financially, without criminals adding to their economic harm.”