Magherafelt Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) have expressed their concern about the number of copper thefts which have occurred in the Magherafelt area over the past few weeks.
Magherafelt PCSP, Chairman councillor Martin Kearney called for vigilance.
He said: “We are aware of burglaries where copper fittings have been stripped out of vacant houses, partially completed houses and even finished homes. As well as the value of the lost fittings, these thefts frequently lead to serious water damage to the rest of the property. I would urge all residents to be vigilant over the winter months.”
PSNI Chief Inspector Alan Hutton added: “Police advice is to secure your home as fully as possible. Home owners should ensure that all windows and doors are locked when the premises are empty and ask neighbours to keep an eye on your property if you know you are going to be away for a while.
“Landlords should check vacant properties regularly and where possible turn off the water supply and remove the tank until the property becomes occupied. Make regular checks of your rental property and ask a neighbour or someone living close by to check the doors and windows every so often.
“Construction companies should take the proper precautions and have new build sites well monitored.
“We would also urge residents to mark their boilers in such a way that in the unfortunate event it is stolen and later recovered we will be able to match it up to its rightful owner. If you are concerned about a van sitting outside a house in your street that you know to be empty or the owners are at work, note the registration and report it to police immediately.
"If you have any suspicions about strangers in your area, please give us a call. Don't think you are wasting our time - you may help us prevent a burglary or catch someone in the act,” added Inspector Hutton.
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