seismic theft

http://www.echonews.com.au/news/theft-didnt-stop-test/1608593/

METGASCO has accused anti-coal seam gas activists of theft, physical intimidation of its staff and destruction of private property at a protest held in Casino since Friday.

The CSG company which has operations in the Richmond Valley is alleging environmental activists have stolen seismic equipment worth about $5500.

The company also alleges activists physically intimidated Metgasco staff and contractors while they were staying at a Lismore hotel.

Metgasco claims superglue was inserted into locks at the Primex site, where the seismic equipment was being stored.

The company claims to have images of the theft that will be handed to the police.

On Friday, more than 50 activists first gathered near the Casino Primex site as Metgasco began seismic testing close to the sewage treatment works on Spring Grove Rd.

However, the number of protestors on site at the weekend sat between 15 and 30.

Media spokesperson for CSG Free Northern Rivers, Adam Guise said he could not comment specifically on the allegations because it was a matter for the police, but said his organisation did not condone the theft of property or the harassment of Metgasco staff.

"We are a peaceful organisation. We do not condone the theft of property," Mr Guise said.

CSG Free Northern Rivers would continue to ensure the protest remained peaceful.

Metgasco said its seismic activities had not been disrupted and were proceeding.

Because of a major operation around a fuel tanker crash, police were not available to comment.