Gardaí in Roscommon are investigating a number of recent thefts of quad bikes that have occurred across the county.

The latest theft was reported on 3 May by a male in his early 50s, who said his quad was taken from his shed at Cloonadra, Ballyleague, Co Roscommon, between 7pm on 2 May and 10am on 3 May 2026.

The English-registered 400cc quad is a black/multicolored Polaris Explorer.

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On 26 April, a male in his 30s reported the overnight theft of his red Honda 500 quad bike from his farmyard at Carnalasson, Four Mile House, Co Roscommon.

Additionally, on 27 February, a male in his early 60s reported the theft of a red Honda 520 quad overnight from a secure shed beside his home at Ballinderry, Four Mile House, Co Roscommon.

Prevention

Protecting quad bikes and ATVs requires a combination of physical security, technology and vigilance to deter thieves.

The best security is a layered approach, with the aim of making your property a less attractive target of theft, crime prevention officer at Roscommon Garda Station Sergeant Damian Bartley stated.

He made a number of recommendations:

  • Keep the vehicles out of sight from nearby roads, as thieves will often survey properties looking for vehicles.
  • Keep gates to yards closed, lock sheds or garage doors at night using a heavy-duty padlock, hasp and staple or chain.
  • When leaving vehicles overnight, a bespoke quad/ATV drive-on security device, which clamps around the wheel and is secured to a concrete floor, is a great solution.
  • Use locks and ground anchors with a high attack rating as another option.
  • The use of tracking systems can notify the owner that the quad/ATV is being interfered with or moved, allowing for a prompt response to either prevent the theft or detain the offender.
  • Insurance is highly recommended for theft and damage.
  • Fit outside security lights controlled by an automatic time switch or infrared beams that react to heat or movement.
  • If the outbuilding or shed is remote with no mains power, consider using a battery-operated GSM mobile alert system and camera which can alert you to anything suspicious.
  • Marking your vehicle is another highly effective, visible deterrent to thieves and an established method of reducing theft.
  • Never leave your keys in the ignition, even if you only briefly leave your ATV/quad bike unattended.

    • Detective Sergeant Keelan Brennan of Roscommon Garda Station is appealing for anyone with information or who may have seen anything suspicious in the areas mentioned during the periods above to get in contact with Roscommon Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line.