Gardaí are investigating a series of credit card thefts at hardware stores and builders’ providers around the country.

Investigators said the thefts have happened at businesses in at least 14 counties in the last four months.

The thefts involve people providing fraudulent credit card details in order to purchase building and agricultural material.

Once the transaction is authorised, they leave the premises with the goods and it is only later discovered that their card details are fraudulent.

Gardaí are urging hardware stores, builders’ providers and local co-operatives that have fallen victim to the fraud to get in contact with them.

Since December 2022, incidents have been reported in the following counties:

• Leitrim
• West Meath
• Kildare
• Monaghan
• Tipperary
• Laois
• Meath
• Waterford
• Clare
• Limerick
• Kerry
• Offaly
• Cork
• Wexford

An incident room has now been established in Thurles Garda Station and a senior investigating officer has been appointed to case.

Any potential victims, at any location, who have not yet come forward are asked to contact Gardaí.