POLICE are warning farmers in North Cornwall to stay vigilant following a recent rise rural thefts.
Devon and Cornwall Police’s Rural Affairs Team received a report of an MDE Koala K300 Tree Shear and an Ifor Williams trailer being stolen from a secluded field in the vicinity of Truscott, Launceston.
The theft is reported to have taken place overnight between 5.30pm on March 11 and 9am on March 12.
Police have warned residents in the area that thefts targeting farming equipment are on the rise.
A spokesperson from the force said: “Farmers please be vigilant for any suspicious activity persons or vehicles present in or around your land.”
Those with any information regarding the recent thefts are asked to get in touch with police by calling 101 and quoting OCC 50250062765.
Police have also asked farmers to consider a number of ‘crime prevention activities’ to prevent theft of agricultural equipment. Some of these measures include:
- Secure property boundaries – Install fences, gates and warning signs around the farm.
- Lock equipment and buildings – Use high quality locks on bars, sheds and storage facilities.
- Install security cameras – Set up CCTV cameras in strategic locations to monitor farm activity.
- Engage in Farm Watch – Collaborate with us and neighbouring farmers to share Information and report suspicious activity.
- Track equipment and livestock – Use GPS trackers on machinery and branding or tagging on livestock.
- Secure fuel and chemicals – Store fuel, fertilisers and pesticides in locked and well lit areas.
- Mark and register your equipment – Engrave identification numbers and register your machinery.
- Regularly inspect your perimeters – Conduct routine checks for signs of tampering or trespassing.
- Report Theft immediately – Notify police as soon as Theft is detected.
- Lock your trailer - Or place a wheel lock onto the trailer.