Gardaí are investigating the "unauthorised taking" of a 4×4 that occurred in the early morning of Tuesday (March 25) in what is understood to have been a rural location.

Gardaí confirmed to Agriland that investigations are underway into the incident, which occurred in the Stackallen area of the county between Navan and Slane.

The incident occurred in the "early hours" of Tuesday morning, Gardaí said.

Agriland understands that the vehicle is a navy-coloured, five-seater Toyota Land Cruiser.

It is understood that the vehicles registration plate indicates it was registered in the first half of 2015 ('151') in Co. Louth ('LH').

It is also understood that the vehicle was taken between the times of 3:00a.m and 4:30a.m on the morning in question.

In other news related to rural crime, gardaí in Co. Laois and Co. Offaly have issued a warning over scams involving bogus callers and rogue traders, who pressure homeowners into unnecessary, overpriced, or substandard work.

According to An Garda Síochána, these individuals are targeting older or isolated people in particular, and will offer to do everything from tarmac jobs to gardening, power washing, gutter cleaning, and painting.

There are a number of red flags with tradespeople offering services that people can look out for.

The first red flag, is if a cold caller is offering to carry out the service on the spot and is using claims of “working nearby” or offering a “special deal” to the homeowner.

Another red flag is if the tradesperson has no formal identification or paperwork, uses high-pressure sales tactics, and asks for cash payment.

Gardaí have said that scammers may even mention that they have been working with neighbours, or mention names of people in the local community.

Gardaí are advising people to be extra vigilant towards elderly or vulnerable neighbours, and to check in and encourage them to report suspicious callers.

Homeowners should not let a stranger dictate what work is done in their home. They should decide what work needs doing in their home, and should seek out reputable, insured tradespeople, ideally through local recommendation.