A Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) substation has been broken into in Strabane.

The NIE has also warned that tampering with the equipment could have been fatal.

The perimeter gate and fence were both vandalised, and a bonfire built and lit near the gate. Although there was no loss of electricity supply or reports of any injuries, NIE has warned that anyone entering a substation puts themselves and others at risk.

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Fiona McClintock, NIE Customer Relations Manager for the Strabane area, said: "I cannot emphasise enough the risks involved in interfering with electricity substations, and lighting fires within the substation grounds increases the risks to the perpetrators and other members of the community.

"The perimeter fencing is there to keep the public out for their own safety. Where you see the yellow and black Danger of Death sign, stay away and, if you do see any broken fencing or damaged gates, please call NIE immediately."

(CD/JP)