Warning: Increase In Theft of Agricultural Plant

Please be aware that Police Scotland are reporting a spike in thefts of agricultural plant, in particular tractors and telehandlers, across Scotland.

Find below some advice on how to keep your equipment safe and secure.

Steps you can take to prevent machinery theft happening on your land:

• Where possible, vehicles should be housed in a lockable garage or building, ideally with security lighting installed to the perimeter.
• Vehicles should always be locked when not in use, with the keys kept hidden and locked away in a secure location.
• Keep recordings or photographs of serial numbers and vehicles as these can be crucial in recovery, should the worst happen.

Steps you can take to prevent theft of Quads and All-Terrain Vehicles:

• Invest in a bespoke quad security device, such as Quadvice or a quality padlock and chain, such as those approved by Secured By Design - a police approved product scheme.
• Securing to a fixed point on the ground or something that takes time to remove will also act as a deterrent.
• Never leave your keys in the ignition, even if you only briefly leave your ATV unattended.
• Keep gates to yards closed as open gates can be an open invitation to thieves.

Steps you can take to prevent theft of Tractors:

• Mark machinery with DNA marking devices and forensic marking products
• Sign up to CESAR, an agricultural equipment registration scheme, which increases the chance of recovering stolen goods by helping police identify stolen machinery
• Have the Vehicle Identification Number etched on windows. This makes the vehicle more detectable and less appealing to thieves because they have to grind out the numbers.
• Instal immobilisers, chip keys and trackers as these are a simple way to deter criminals or track vehicles and can be fitted easily by an experienced agricultural engineer.

If you notice anything unusual on your land and premises or when you are out and about in the countryside call Police Scotland Tel 101. If a crime is being committed call 999.

Original Message Sent By
Mark Armstrong (NHWN, Community Support Officer, NW Scotland)