Police Scotland officers in the Highlands appeal for information after theft of £5000 worth of goods and equipment from construction site at Tornagrain new town

MORE than £5000 worth of equipment have been stolen from a Tornagrain building site.

The thieves entered the construction site sometime between 5pm on Wednesday and 6.20am on Thursday.

As well as appealing for information and witnesses, police have urged construction sites to take precautions to protect their equipment and materials.

Detective Constable Paul Sanderson of Inverness CID said: "Construction sites can be easy targets for thieves. The high value of plant, tools and equipment can lead to quick and easy profit for successful thieves.

"Here are some simple tips to reduce the risk of theft:

• Lighting, good portable lights help ensure lighting out of working hours. Floodlights operated by sensors could also be installed.
• CCTV and alarm systems, either stand alone or integrated, should be used to protect the security compounds and offices
• Display warning notices around the perimeter stating that security precautions are in force
• To discourage theft, permanently mark your company's property for quick visual identification
• Encourage everyone on site to mark all their tools and keep a list of all VINs as well as serial and engine numbers
• Ensure all small tools and equipment are stored in a high security cabinet or enclosure
• If the site is not protected by perimeter fences, plant should be kept in a security compound
• Remove ignition keys when plant is unattended and don't leave them under the seat
• Position the site office in an area with limited access for the opportunist thief
• Office equipment, particularly computers are all expensive and can easily be stolen if not properly secured

"Anyone with information in relation to this incident, or any concerns in relation to suspicious activity in or around construction sites, can contact police on 101 or via the Police Scotland website."

Those getting in touch should quote reference PS-20210225-043 / NN/1095/21.

Anonymous reports can also be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.