Public urged to report suspicious activity

Police are warning local residents to beware of people who will help themselves to presents at the expense of others.

Officers say it's the time of year when criminals try to steal heating oil, vehicle fuel and metal items with scrap value.

Targeted operations and arrests have already been carried out, the police working with other agencies to identify offenders, and there is a request for any suspicious activity over the holiday period to be reported.

Things that have been taken in the past include metal gates and even overhead electric cables.

The numbers to ring are 631212 for Police Headquarters, and 0800 555 111 for the anonymous Crimestoppers line.

There will be extra police patrols in quiet areas during the holiday season.