Raiders foiled in attempt to steal Essex fire service cutters

LIFE-SAVING equipment at Newport Fire Station has been targeted by thieves for the fourth time in two years.

Burglars attempted to get into the station between 10.30pm on Friday and 5.50am on Saturday by smashing a window at the front of the building, causing �200 damage.

However, they left empty handed after the station security alarm frightened them off.

Station officer Neil Byford said: “It does seem as though they were targeting the cutting equipment and it is not the first time. Two years ago there was a spate across the country but it cooled down for a while.

“Thankfully they haven’t got away with anything this time but it is a very sad state of affairs.

“I just don’t know why people would look to steal from the emergency services in this way.

“Cutting equipment is primarily used for road accidents and it can be life saving.

“In the current financial climate there is no guarantee that the equipment would be replaced quickly. To steal it could have put lives at stake.”

Mr Byford added that security at the station is now to be reassessed.

Insp Kevin Wakefield of Saffron Walden police station has urged anyone who sees suspicious behaviour around the fire station to get in touch with police.

He added: “This sort of recklessness puts people’s lives at risk.”

Anyone with information about this crime should call Essex Police on 0300 333 4444 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.