Calls for vigilance after reports of oil thefts in Co Antrim, £600 energy support payment could be factor

SDLP’s Patsy McGlone said he had learned of a number of thefts at homes and community organisations in the Ballinderry area.

The MLA said: “After being contacted by a number of local residents and community organisations who have had their oil stolen in recent days, I am concerned that we could see a spike in premises being targeted following the issuing of the £600 energy support voucher. While these thefts have been reported within the Ballinderry area, it's unlikely those responsible will confine their activities to one community.

“Those behind these thefts will be aware that people are receiving this much needed energy support and many are using it to purchase oil. It’s utterly disgraceful that criminals are taking advantage of this situation and stealing this oil which many people are relying on it to heat their homes over the next few months, and at a time when families are really struggling.

“It’s deeply regrettable that it has come to this, but I would urge people, particularly those who have recently topped up their oil tanks, to remain vigilant around potential thefts. I would urge anyone who notices anything suspicious in their area to contact the police so that the people behind these thefts can be apprehended before anyone else falls victim to them.”

Police confirmed they had received several reports of oil theft in the Ballinderry area over the past week.

It was reported that a quantity of oil had been stolen from a church hall at Ballinderry Bridge Road sometime between Friday, January27 and Monday, January 30.Further reports were also received on Monday of heating oil thefts from two other premises in the same area, believed to have taken place overnight.A further report was also made today (Wednesday) of the theft of oil from a house at Drumenny Road, Cookstown.Inspector Lucas is appealing to anyone who was in the area in recent days, and may have witnessed any suspicious activity, including vehicles in the area or individuals acting suspiciously, to get in touch by calling 101, and quoting reference number 973 of 31/01/23.Inspector Lucas said: "For thieves, oil tanks can be seen as rich and easy pickings, so it's worth looking at some preventative measures to avoid being targeted and left without oil."Measures such as securing your oil tank, keeping gates closed and locked can prevent a theft."We know that thieves operate at different times of the day, so if you see something that doesn't seem right, or is out of the ordinary, report it. Note down any important details such as a description or vehicle registration. That detail could make a difference.”"If you have any concerns about this issue, or if you would like some crime prevention advice call us on 101 and we can arrange for our Crime Prevention Officer to speak with you."

You can also make a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/