FOYLE Search and Rescue has called on the public not to tamper with life belts along the River Foyle.
It comes after one of the life belts was removed from its housing and was only located after a police search for the life saving apparatus.
FSR say on its Facebook page: “On Thursday 10th December 2020, a lifebuoy along the River Foyle was tampered with and removed completely from its housing leaving NO lifesaving device in situ.
“The Lifebuoy was eventually located by the PSNI who returned the fifesaving device to its original location ensuring it could be used by members of the Public when required.
“Lifebelts have been activated multiple times during this year at several locations resulting in successful rescues and lives being saved.
“Foyle Search & Rescue Charity would appeal to the Public, if anyone observes these Lifesaving devices being tampered with in anyway please notify the PSNI asap on the non emergency number 101.
“Lifebelts are located all along the River Foyle for the Publics Safety.
“We appreciate that members of the Public have conducted Fundraising over the years to purchase extra Lifebuoys.
“PLEASE DO NOT TAMPER with LIFEBUOYS!”