Farms across the country have been targeted by criminals in a spate of thefts over the last fortnight.

In Cork, five liquid nitrogen containers for AI straws were taken from a farm in the Killeagh area of the county.

The liquid nitrogen containers that were stolen from the farmyard in Killeagh Co Cork. \ Garda press office

The containers, along with other farm machinery, were taken during the theft?, which occurred sometime between 1am and 7.30am on Tuesday 5 May.

While gardaí could not confirm if the containers were full, even one that was half-full could contain straws worth up to €5,000 assuming a value of €20/straw. Anyone with information has been asked to contact Youghal garda station on 024-92200.

The public have been warned not to interfere with the containers should they come across them, as liquid nitrogen can cause severe burns if it comes in contact with the skin.

Stolen trailer.

Elsewhere, two quads and a trailer were stolen from a farmyard in Kilminchy, Portlaoise, Co Laois, on 1 May.

Stolen quad.

The quads are two Honda 420 models.

One is a 2008 model worth around €2,500 and the other quad is a 2016 model worth €4,500. The stolen trailer is a 7x4 single-axle trailer, has a green frame and is worth around €300.

Stolen quad.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious on the night in question is asked to contact Portlaoise Garda station.

Also last week, a Claas hay rake worth €14,000 was stolen from a farm in Castletown, Co Meath. The machinery was taken during the burglary of a shed between 8.30am and 9pm on 27 April.

The hay rake in question is a model 2600 and was manufactured in 2008.

Gardaí asked that anyone who comes upon a piece of machinery that matches the description for sale at a knockdown price contact them on 046-903 6100.

Read more

Two quads and trailer stolen from Laois farm

Liquid nitrogen stolen from Cork farmyard

Machinery worth €14,000 stolen from Meath farm