A £3,500 cash reward is now available for information on thefts of agricultural equipment and tools in certain policing districts. The reward, offered by the charity Crimestoppers, took effect on 26 June and will remain in place for three months until 26 September.

The scheme covers the PSNI’s South Area, which includes the districts of Mid Ulster, Fermanagh and Omagh, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, and Newry, Mourne and Down.

Inspector Brian St Ledger said such thefts can harm the livelihoods of those in rural communities. He expressed hope that the reward would encourage people with knowledge of recent crimes involving tools, quad bikes, and other items taken from agricultural properties to come forward.

Crimestoppers is independent of the police and guarantees complete anonymity. The charity will pay the reward directly to anyone whose information, given exclusively to Crimestoppers, leads to an arrest and conviction.

The public can contact Crimestoppers 24/7 on 0800 555 111 or through the website Crimestoppers-uk.org.