Kent Police's rural crime team has recovered suspected stolen goods valued at over £2 million since the beginning of the year.

The team, which patrols the entire county, confiscated the items from various locations including Dover, Dartford, Cranbrook, and Faversham.

The recovered items comprised 11 caravans and motorhomes, nine other vehicles, five quad bikes, six diggers, four motorbikes, a tractor, six trailers, and a horse box.

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Among the seized items were various types of plant machinery, such as a forklift, as well as approximately 4,000 tools.

This operation has resulted in the arrest of 20 suspects, who are currently on bail as investigations continue.

Sargent Ross Haybourne commented: “Crime in rural areas can sometimes go unreported, but as our recent results show, officers are taking the fight to those who are suspected of targeting farms, businesses and other victims in rural areas.

“Where suspected stolen property is seized, we will go the extra mile to reunite it with victims.

“We also focus on offences affecting the equine community, wildlife and heritage sites, and remain mindful that residents and business owners can often feel vulnerable in rural areas.”

According to NFU Mutual's latest rural crime report, rural crime cost the UK an estimated £52.8 million in 2023, an increase from £50.6 million the previous year.

The rural insurer has noted that all signs point to rural crime becoming increasingly organised, sophisticated, and determined.