A forensic police probe into four suspected arson attacks continues but a motive remains unclear.
Four hay sheds in the wider Banbridge area were completely gutted in the space of seven days and police believe these were deliberate acts which are linked.
This morning (Tuesday), police issued another appeal for information following the latest incident on the Brickland Road area of Ballinaskeagh on Sunday night.
Two tractors, a feeder wagon and 30 large square and 150 round bales were destroyed in the blaze which took firefighters up to eight hours to extinguish.
The cost of the damage was estimated at £35,000.
DUP MLA William Irwin said the spate of incidents is very concerning, especially as a number of farms have now been targeted in these attacks.
“The latest attack has seen a significant amount of damage caused costing thousands of pounds,” he said.
“I have spoken to police today and they are actively investigating the incidents. I also understand that there has been a spate of heavy battery thefts from tractors, handlers and other plant vehicles in the vicinity of the A1 carriageway.
“This is a concern and in many instances, for the farming community, it can be very difficult to completely lock down a farm and make it 100% thief proof.
“Hopefully the PSNI can get a firm grip on this issue and track down those responsible for this costly spate of rural crime.”
If you have information, please contact police on 101 and quote ref 96 of 22/9/19.
