Police investigate linked supermarket thefts in Ballymena, Newry and Limavady

Police are appealing for information after a series of reported thefts targeting supermarkets in Ballymena, Newry and Limavady over the course of two days last week.

The incidents, which involved healthcare products and toiletries being stolen from commercial premises, are now being investigated by the PSNI amid suspicions the thefts may be connected.

The Ballymena incident took place at a supermarket in the Larne Link Road area shortly before midday on Tuesday, May 5, while similar thefts were also reported in Newry and Limavady within hours of each other.

Three supermarket thefts reported across Northern Ireland

According to police, the first report was received following a theft at a supermarket in the Downshire Road area of Newry at around 6.30pm on Monday, May 4.

A second theft was then reported at a supermarket in Ballymena’s Larne Link Road area shortly before midday on Tuesday, May 5.

The third incident happened later the same day at a supermarket in the Main Street area of Limavady.

Police said two men were allegedly involved in the incidents.

Suspects described wearing dark clothing

Sergeant Broadley said officers received reports relating to “thefts of healthcare products and toiletries having been taken from supermarkets by two men”.

In one report, the suspects were described as wearing dark coloured jeans and jackets, while one of the men was also said to have been wearing a baseball cap.

The PSNI has not confirmed whether any arrests have been made at this stage.

Police appeal for information from the public

Police enquiries into all three incidents are ongoing, and officers are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the affected areas to come forward.

Sergeant Broadley said:

“Police enquiries in relation to all these reports are underway, and we are appealing to anyone who might have any information which could assist us to contact 101 and quote reference number 1300 of 07/05/26.”

People can also submit information online through the PSNI non-emergency reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

The appeal comes as retailers across Northern Ireland continue to face rising concerns around organised shoplifting and thefts targeting high-value everyday goods such as healthcare products and toiletries.