Longford property owners on high alert as criminal gangs ‘marking’ rural targets 

Longford farmers and businesses are being urged to be vigilant after criminal gangs have been spotted ‘marking’ rural targets in the south of the county. 

A farm family has spoken of how their farmyard was targeted and they are urging others to ‘please keep your eyes open and report suspicious behaviour’.

They explained how ‘men were seen’ in their field and ‘on the road beside the farm with a dog and an English registration red car’. 

A short time later another vehicle with English registration plates and three men acting suspiciously were seen at their farmyard gates.  

The family added, “When we went to check it out, we found our gates had been "marked" with a fine white wire. We appeal to everyone around south Longford to please keep a lookout for men with dogs, lamps etc, who may just appear to be out lamping hares. These men are targeting farms, businesses and our homes.”

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The family said they took precautions by leaving all their lights on and removing the ‘marker’ left behind by the criminals. 

They concluded, “We put chains and locks on the gate, let the dog out but we know we were lucky this time. Thanks to those who were driving past and were wise enough to know something wasn't right.” 

County Longford IFA Chairperson Gavin White had some advice for local farmers.

He cautioned, “Do not leave keys in your vehicle, even when in your own yard. Keep gates and doors locked. Tools, quads etc should be kept out of sight where possible.

“Leaving keys under flower pots, gas cylinders or the nearest stone to the gate is not advisable. Consider a combination lock if multiple key holders are an issue.

“Sensor lights around the house and yard are low cost, effective for security and your own safety. Check and go through your insurance policy with your provider to see exactly what is in the small print.”

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Mr White concluded, “Take heed of anything out of the ordinary and report it. Nobody minds a false alarm, in fact it sharpens us for long nights.”

Anyone who spots any suspicious activity or with any information is asked to contact Longford Garda Station on 043 3350570, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.