Gardaí are investigating a burglary at a farm in the Bulgaden area, Co. Limerick, where it is believed that five milk machine units were stolen.

The theft occurred overnight on Saturday, December 7 when a quantity of items were reported as stolen.

It is understood that the locks for the farmyard gate were broken on the door leading into the farmyard. Investigations remain underway.

Limerick IFA chair Sean Lavery said that farmers "should keep an eye out for online sales of milk machine units that may be stolen", and report any suspicious activity.

Anyone with information on the burglary has been asked to contact gardaí at Kilmallock Garda Station on 063 98018, or Bruff Garda Station on 061 38294.

Meanwhile, in Co. Monaghan, gardaí are investigating the theft of a cattle trailer that happened in Ballybay on Saturday, December 14.

The incident occurred in daylight at around 11:30a.m in the Castleblayney road area. Gardaí have said that they continuing to investigate.

The theft follows a spate of burglaries in Co. Cavan, where gardaí urged the public to be vigilant. With darker evenings upon us, An Garda Síochána has encouraged homeowners to protect their homes when burglaries traditionally tend to rise.

The campaign is part of Operation Thor, a national multi-strand anti-crime initiative which actively targets organised crime gangs and repeat offenders. It involves a wide-range of enforcement, crime prevention and public awareness measures.

Over the winter months, targeted activity across garda divisions include checkpoints, increased patrolling in burglary hot-spots, and the provision of impactful and useful crime prevention advice.

Cavan Community Engagement Unit will be on patrol in the Community Policing Van and parked in the towns below over the coming days at specified times.

The vehicle will allow members of the public to come in, sit down and meet with members should they have any forms that require completion, queries, reports or concerns that can be assisted with.

Gardaí on board will also have leaflets on crime prevention, personal safety , farm security and other useful information.