A farmer in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, has appealed for information about the alleged theft of 38 hoggets from his farm.

The hoggets, a combination of Texal, Charollais, Blue Leicester and Suffolk cross breeds, are alleged to have been stolen last week.

The farmer told Agriland that he has notified local gardaí, who are investigating CCTV footage.

A Garda spokesperson has confirmed that gardaí received a report of "the theft of livestock from a field in Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan".

Gardai believe the theft to have taken place between 11:30a.m on Monday, June 1 and midday the following day.

Investigations are ongoing.

The farmer told Agriland that he had heard of previous cases of stolen livestock being recovered after their story has been made public.

“So, we’re hoping to get the word out,” he said.

Increased incidents

This theft follows a string of recent thefts from farms in Ulster.

Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) were appealing for information to aid an investigation into the theft of approximately 47 cattle in Co. Armagh.

PSNI confirmed that the 47 animals were last seen in a field on the Macullagh Road, Newtownhamilton between 6:00p.m and 8:00p.m on Friday, May 22.

The farmer discovered that his herd had disappeared on Monday, May 25.

Police said that the stolen cattle were a mix of colours, with all of them carrying official identification tags.

PSNI said: "Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting the reference number CC2026052800908, or submit information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

PSNI were also investigating the theft of a water drinker from a farm in Newry, Co. Down.

PSNI stated that the theft occurred sometime between 5:30p.m on Thursday, May 21 and 9:30a.m on Saturday, May 23 on the Ferryhill Road near Newry.

According to PSNI, the suspect reportedly gained access to the field by "ramming the galvanised gates", with the water drinker being subsequently stolen.

Police highlighted that the drinker "is a distinctive item" due to the fact that "it has two quad tyres" attached to the bottom.

Officers have appealed for information regarding any sightings or the whereabouts of the drinker, urging the public to contact them by dialling 101.