Police appeal after 13 pregnant ewes stolen in Co Londonderry

Police have issued an appeal for information following the theft of 13 pregnant ewes in Co Londonderry.

The ewes were taken from a field in Claudy sometime between last Wednesday and Thursday morning in what has been described as a “significant loss” to the farmer.

It comes following the reported taking of 50 Texel and Suffolk-bred ewe lambs, with orange markings last month from a field on Teenaght Road in Claudy sometime between 7pm on Thursday January 25 and 7am on Friday January 26.

Police said they are investigating whether the two incidents are linked.

A police spokesman said the latest Suffolk/Texel-cross ewes, all with red markings on their left side, were taken from a field at the junction of Kilcreen Road and Altinure Road.

“The removal of these ewes would have required planning and the use of a vehicle, for example, a trailer, to transport the animals away from the area,” they said.

“I’m appealing to anyone who recalls seeing any unfamiliar vehicles in the area, between last Wednesday morning and 10:30am the next day, to call us.

“The theft of these ewes will be of a significant loss to the farmer. Not only is there the value of the ewes and the lambs, but there is also the cost involved in rearing and farming the animals.

“We’re urging anyone with information about the animals’ whereabouts, or who took them, to get in touch. It may be a detail that you think is insignificant, but it could make a difference.”

“The number to call with information is 101, quoting reference 1564 of 09/02/24, or make a report online via www.psni.police.uk/report Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”