The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has arrested three males in a cross-border incident relating to a stolen tractor that is believed to have been involved in a number of hit-and-run collisions.

The three males, aged 16, 18 and 19, were arrested in the early hours of Tuesday, December 14, on suspicion of offences including driving while unfit through drink and drugs, and dangerous driving, according to the PSNI.

This followed a report made to an An Garda Síochána just after 3.30a.m that a tractor had been stolen from Co. Monaghan.

An Garda Síochána has confirmed that it is investigating the "unauthorised taking of a tractor" which occurred in Clontibret Co. Monaghan in the early hours of December 14.

In a statement, the PSNI said:
It is believed the tractor was involved in several hit-and-run collisions before ending up in Armagh. It is here, on the Tivnacree Road that officers detailed the three males."
As of this morning (Tuesday, December 14), all three remained in custody, according to the PSNI.
As their investigations continue, the PSNI is asking anyone with information to contact them (on 101) quoting reference number 150 of 14/12/21.

Gardaí forced to take evasive action

In a statement to Agriland, Gardaí explained that two patrol cars responded to the stolen tractor report in Co. Monaghan and were forced to "take evasive action to avoid a collision" with the vehicle. "No one was injured, and no vehicles were impacted in this jurisdiction" the Gardaí confirmed.

Kilkenny farm fires

Meanwhile, Gardaí have said that no arrests have been made yet as part of investigations into a series of fires at farm properties Callan, Co. Kilkenny.

The fires occurred on October 31, November 5 and December 8, 2021.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have information in relation these incidents to contact them at Kilkenny Garda Station on: 056 777 5000.