Six rural post boxes stolen across Mid and East Antrim – police appeal for information

Police are appealing for information following the theft of six rural post boxes across the Mid and East Antrim area in the past fortnight.

Between 5 and 11 August, officers in Ballymena received four separate reports of post boxes being removed from locations in Cullybackey, Glarryford and the Moorfields area.

The stolen items are cast iron pedestal pole-mounted post boxes, frequently used by local residents. Police say that in each case, the boxes were either cut free or uprooted, leaving behind significant damage.

Inspector McToal said:

“We have received a number of reports between the 5th and 11th August, that post boxes located in rural areas across the district have been targeted. These are cast iron pedestal pole mounted post boxes that are frequently used by the communities where they are situated in, and substantial damage has been caused where the boxes have been taken each time.”

Police are investigating whether the thefts are linked to collectors seeking valuable historical items or simply the scrap metal value.

Inspector McToal added:

“It’s not clear if these thefts are being driven by collectors seeking valuable historical items, or for the scrap metal value, but local officers are conducting a number of enquiries at this time to ascertain the motive and who is behind these incidents.”

Officers are urging anyone with information or who noticed suspicious activity in the affected areas to get in touch.

“I am appealing to anyone with information or who noticed any suspicious activity to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 696 of 05/08/25, or online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/,” said Inspector McToal.

“Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”