19 sheep stolen in County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Police are appealing for information following the incident
Police are appealing for information following the incident

19 sheep have been stolen from a farm in Newtownabbey, County Antrim in Northern Ireland.

Police are appealing for information after it was reported that the sheep had been taken from Sealstown Road area of Newtownabbey last week.

Local policing team inspector, Inspector Buchanan, said: “Nineteen Suffolk/Cheviot sheep and one pedigree ram were taken some time between 8.45am on February 1st and 8.45am the following day (February 2nd).

“If you saw anything suspicious or can help police with their enquiries please call the 101 number quoting reference number 499 of 2.2.17. Alternatively information about crime can be passed via the independent Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.”

Sheep rustling is a major problem for some rural areas of the UK. Last week, 52 sheep were found in a field in Somerset after being stolen and kept in poor condition.

Officers said the thieves could have transported the animals more than 300 miles.