Cost-of-living crisis could fuel a surge in rural crime

The latest NFU Mutual report on rural crime suggested that the lockdown lull was already over, but this week stolen vehicle recovery company, Tracker Network (UK), warned that the worst was yet to come.

Head of Police Liaison at Tracker, Clive Wain, said: “The cost-of-living crisis is not only putting a strain on farming communities, but it is also fuelling greater interest in used and older farming vehicles and equipment from thieves looking to fill the shortfall in new assets due supply chain disruptions.

“A recent NFU Mutual poll has already revealed that a staggering 89% of farmers are worried that inflation and the increased cost of living will lead to an increase in rural crime. The cost of essential items like diesel and fertilizer is set to soar, so theft of vehicles/equipment could be even more devastating for the community in the upcoming months. Which is why we are urging individuals to put strict measures in place to protect themselves from opportunist thieves and organised crime groups," said Mr Wain.

Read more: Rural crime is back with a vengeance

“We have seen several times that criminal gangs will steal to order and quickly ship the goods abroad to places like Eastern Europe and North Africa, and farming equipment is high on thieves shopping lists as demand continues to grow,” he continued. “It is crucial that farming communities take the necessary steps to protect their property, including blocking field entrances, digging ditches around fields and upgrading building security and installing CCTV.

“Whilst all of these are effective, the most effective to ensure a stolen vehicle is returned to its rightful owner is by fitting a tracking device. This won’t necessarily stop the vehicle or equipment from being stolen, but it will significantly increase the prospect of successful recovery and minimise any devastating financial loss for farming communities.”