Police issue warning to be extra vigilant as farm thefts see spike

Farmers and crofters are being encouraged to take steps to protect their properties after a spate of farm thefts.

Police Scotland is urging producers to review the security of their holdings and pay close attention to machinery and equipment like tractor GPS kits, which are being targeted by criminals across the UK.

“We are asking farmers to be vigilant of organised criminals who target rural communities and specifically GPS systems,” said crime reduction officer PC Mark Irvine, of the north- east police division.

“We would advise people, where possible, to secure their vehicles and systems in lockable buildings, to remove keys and keep them in secure locations.

“And also, to mark property to make it distinctive.

“Ensure you have full descriptions and serial numbers, and consider 4G-enabled CCTV systems to protect property in isolated locations.”

His colleague Detective Sergeant Scott McKay said there had been a number of rural thefts in the north-east of Scotland in the past month, including a rise in stolen power tools.

He urged farmers to report any strange activities they might witness, adding: “It is important that those in the rural communities report all suspicious activity to Police Scotland.

“This information can be shared through Rural Watch Scotland and help to build an intelligence picture around these criminals, which can help police to take action.”

Items like GPS kits are among top targets said police.