Mindless thieves have struck again and stolen lifesaving equipment from a bridge for the THIRD time.
Life buoys have been nicked and vandalised from Stirling (Stuckie) Bridge, between Rosshead and Jamestown, with council chiefs saying they are “shocked and disappointed” by the latest incident.
It comes a month since thieves struck at Dumbarton Bridge, Bonhill Bridge and Stirling Bridge – stealing rings which were installed just weeks earlier as part of efforts to step up local water safety measures.
The buoys were replaced but thieves targeted bridges again a couple of weeks ago, before striking again this week.
A West Dunbartonshire Council spokesperson said: “Once again we are shocked and disappointed that vital lifesaving equipment on the Stirling (Stuckie) Bridge has been stolen and vandalised by mindless thieves.
“This is the third time these life buoys have been replaced and we will keep replacing them as they are there to help save lives in an emergency.
“If unavailable, there could be devastating consequences for anyone who gets into difficulty in the water.
“The removal of the belts is not only extremely dangerous but has a significant cost and resource implication each time they need replaced.
“We are working with partners to ensure these are replaced as quickly as possible, but would urge anyone who has any information to contact Police Scotland on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.”
New lifebelts were recently installed by a ‘Partnership Approach to Water Safety’ group – PAWS – set up last year to boost water safety around West Dunbartonshire.
It includes numerous partners including Scottish Fire and Rescue, Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service, West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Water Safety Scotland, RNLI, Coastguard, and Loch Lomond Rescue Boat.
Throughout 2021, the PAWS group received funding to replace old equipment, while installing life rings in new locations and improving signage.
Residents are urged to report any damage or defacement of life saving equipment around West Dunbartonshire by emailing roads@west-dunbarton.gov.uk immediately.
Anybody spotting any of the items being tampered with or stolen should contact Police Scotland on 999 if this is ongoing or 101 if not.
