Livestock rustling boosts rise in cost of rural crime

The cost of rural theft rose in the UK in 2013, according to NFU Mutual. The results of the insurer’s 2014 Rural Crime Survey show the value of items stolen last year up 5.2% on 2012 at £44.5 million. The figures are based on insurance claims handled by NFU Mutual.

Tools continue to top the insurer’s list of most commonly stolen items, followed by ATVs and quad bikes and oil and diesel. A 25% hike in the cost of livestock rustling marks 2013 out as one of the worst years on record for livestock theft.

The figures have prompted calls for farmers to review their on-farm security. NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “It's vital that farmers do everything they can to protect their stock and property. Work with neighbours to keep each other informed about any suspicious activity you notice in your area – make use of the close community we have in farming.” Police forces have also urged farmers to look out for unusual activity.

Chief Inspector Martin Sims of Sussex police says: “If you see or hear of anything suspicious, please don't be reluctant to call your police force. You can be our eyes and ears”

The survey results come alongside a spate of arson attacks on straw stacks. More than £30,000 of straw was destroyed when 700 bales caught fire in Wrockwardine, Shropshire, earlier this month. Police forces have offered farmers advice on improving farm security.

Chief Inspector Sims warns farmers to store equipment and bales out of public view and away from roads. “Keep things in your line of sight but out of sight of others”, he says. PC Nick Willey, Force Wildlife Crime Officer for Lincolnshire Police, offers some reminders of best practice. “Use strong gate posts, consider blocking up unused entrances to fields or yards and make sure you secure equipment stores when they are not in use,” PC Willey advises.

Many farmers use CCTV to protect their property. Christopher Jones of Farm CCTV, Shrewsbury, reports a rise in the number of CCTV security systems he is being asked to install. Mr Jones says: “I would position the cameras so people can see them. They work as a deterrent.”

Last year’s NFU Mutual Rural Crime Survey reported a 19.7 per cent drop in the cost of rural theft in 2012. More advice for members will be provided in the forthcoming edition of Sheep Farmer magazine.