Appeal For Information On Vehicle Theft In L'Derry

Detectives from Strand Road in L'Derry are appealing for information and witnesses in relation to a report of a vehicle theft in Eglinton made yesterday, Monday 31st October.

A black Range Rover Velar was stolen from Ervey Court in the village, and it's believed this occurred sometime between 4.30pm on Sunday, 30th October and 1.30pm yesterday afternoon. 

Detective Sergeant Ballentine said: "We're treating this incident as a keyless car theft. One line of enquiry is that the vehicle may have been taken across the Border into Donegal, and we have been in touch with our colleagues in An Garda Síochána. 

"As we continue with enquiries, we're appealing to anyone with information about the whereabouts of this vehicle, or who saw any suspicious activity in Ervey Court between 4.30pm on Sunday, and 1.30pm yesterday, to call us. We're also keen to hear from anyone who is offered a similar vehicle for sale in suspicious circumstances." 

The number to call with information is 101, quoting reference number 965 of 31/10/22. 

Detective Sergeant Ballentine added: "With advances in technology, thieves are now able to gain access to your vehicle by redirecting the wireless signal from your key fob. They only need to be within a few metres of your car key to get the signal, even if it's inside your home.

"We're urging the public to be vigilant, especially those with keyless entry cars. The cars these thieves target are usually extremely expensive, so the loss is great."

Some useful advice includes: 

• When at home keep your car key (and the spare) away from the car, doors and windows

• Put your keys in a signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag

• Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it's not being used

• Use a steering wheel lock or car alarm

• Park in your garage overnight, if you don't have a garage park close to your home

For more information visit the Police Service of Northern Ireland's website here.

SDLP Condemn Orange Hall Arson Attack

SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has condemned an arson attack on an Orange hall near Magherafelt.

Police are treating the fire at Ballynougher Orange hall as a hate crime.

Mr McGlone said there was no place for these kind of attacks in society and that everyone's culture must be respected.

Mid Ulster MLA Mr McGlone said: "I condemn this attack on Ballynougher Orange hall in the strongest possible terms. The people who carried out this disgraceful incident do not represent people in this area who live and work alongside their neighbours in a spirit of respect and tolerance.

"Everyone must be free to celebrate their culture and traditions without having to worry about being subjected to this kind of attack. This incident should give those who seek to rise tensions in the North for their own ends significant pause. We need to get back to focusing on the things that bring us together and not issues which drive us apart.

"I'd urge anyone with any information about this attack to come forward to police and assist them with their investigation. We need to send a clear message that attacks of this nature will not be tolerated on any community and ensure that we don't see any repeat of this."

DUP Urge Energy Providers To End Minimum Consumption Charge

The DUP has welcomed the decision by Firmus Energy to remove their minimum consumption charge for customers and urged other energy providers to follow suit.

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart said: "Everyone is aware of the pressures on household budgets as a consequence of record energy prices.

"As we now enter into a colder period of weather, many families will be making the difficult decision of balancing the need for heat with the extortionate cost of heat. I have no doubt that in many homes across Northern Ireland, reduction in the amount of energy consumed will be the norm this winter as people try to make ends meet.

"In light of this focus on efficiency it is important that energy companies do not impose unfair charges on the basis of minimum usage. I am delighted that after engagement with Firmus Energy, they have decided to remove their minimum consumption charge. This will save households £71.99 plus VAT.

"I commend Firmus Energy for taking this step. It will make a difference to some households and is a welcome and timely boost. We now need to be continuing to work to see the price of gas fall, whilst also ensuring Government energy support packages are fit for purpose and remain for as long as they are necessary."