PSNI host rural crime event in Cookstown

by Gráinne Connolly

Police in Mid Ulster have organised a rural crime information day, and have been working with partner agencies to stage the event at Loughry College on Friday, March 9th from 10am until 4pm.

Outlining the aims of the event, Inspector Joanne Gibson said:

“Rural and agricultural crime is a serious issue and police understand the concerns of those who have been directly involved.

"It is important to stress that the PSNI takes a robust approach in tackling all crime, including those which affect the rural community.  

"We want to work towards reducing opportunities for this type of crime by increasing public awareness, working with other partner agencies to identify ways of preventing crime, and targeting and arresting those committing such offences." 

Police have organised the event in association with the PSCP and have invited the following supporting agencies: 

• PSNI Crime Prevention officers and specialist vehicle advice
   
• Crash Safety Car Simulator and Road Policing Education Officer
   
• Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service
   
• National Farmers’ Union
   
• PSNI quad and mobile Police station
   
• Rural Support Northern Ireland
   
• Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Hazardous Area Response Team
   
• TRACKER and Blockstem
   
• Firearms’ Licensing
   
• PSNI Wildlife Officer

 There will also be the opportunity to avail of free trailer marking. 

Inspector Joanne Gibson went on: 

“This initiative is important in helping to prevent crime against the rural community and to build even closer relationships between all agencies, the PSNI and the farming community.

"The prevention and detection of rural and agricultural crime continues every day to support the rural community and we are keen to work with them to address this issue.”