A volunteer group fear lives could be lost as vital safety equipment is being removed from Dundee waterfront.
Twenty life rings were taken from along the edge of the River Tay over the weekend, costing hundreds of pounds to replace.
But volunteers at Tay Valley React UK say the price of removing the rings could be more than financial if someone got into difficulty in the water.
Members of the organisation discovered safety stations along Riverside Walk were tampered with during patrols on Sunday.
William Brown, equipment manager of Tay Valley React UK said it was “one of the worst” examples of equipment being misused he has seen.
Concern over missing life rings at Dundee waterfront
He said: “We had 20 consecutive stations in a row between Bridgeview Station and Discovery Point that were removed.
“This is vital life-saving equipment for anyone who may be in distress in the water.
“Everyone is fully aware of the incidents people have experienced on the bridge, particularly at this time of year.
“You want to ensure every piece of equipment is available to the public should such a situation arise.”
Fifteen rings have already been replaced by the group, with another two recovered from the water.
The rest will be installed when more stock is available.
William added: “That was all we had in stock, this is a big problem that so many have gone.
“There have been incidents before but nothing on the scale of what happened here over the weekend.”
New safety rings will be paid for from public purse
The rings cost £60 each, as well as £30 for their rope inserts, paid for by Dundee City Council.
William said: “I would urge members of the public to leave them alone unless in the event of an emergency.
“If this equipment isn’t there, there is a greater concern for potential loss of life.”
A spokesman for the RNLI also condemned tampering with the equipment.
He said: “Public rescue equipment – such as life rings – are vitally important on the waterside and should not be tampered with.
“If you spot someone in difficulty in the water, dial 999 and alert the emergency services.”
The council says the remainder of the replacement rings have been ordered.
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