Northern Ireland Launches Bid to Tackle ‘Agri-Crime’.

Agri-crime – the theft of agricultural vehicles and equipment – is a major issue across the UK today. In Northern Ireland plans are in place to tackle the problem head-on, by helping high-risk farmers to purchase vehicle trackers and similar security devices which will make it far easier for police to recover stolen equipment.

The plans – which involve partial funding of the purchase of approved security systems which can be used to protect vehicles, premises and even livestock – have been drawn up by the Department of Justice, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and are supported by NFU Mutual and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

As well as making recovery easier, it is hoped that knowledge of the scheme, and signs advertising the use of tracking devices and other security systems, will act as a strong deterrent to would-be thieves – reducing the currently high number of thefts and attempted thefts.

Theft is never a victimless crime, but in rural communities high-value equipment such as vehicles can be the difference between ‘make or break’ for hard-hit farmers.  The loss of a tractor could be the last straw for many.

Justice Minister David Ford says: “It is important that farmers take steps to protect their farms, their livestock and their machinery. By providing funding support for security devices I hope more farmers will be encouraged to take the steps they need to help protect their property.”

Chief Superintendent Brian Kee, the Police Service’s lead on agricultural crime, adds “These devices mean that equipment is easily identifiable, and recoverable if stolen. We have had a number of successes in recent months in recovering tractors that were stolen, but had tracking measures fitted.”

At Blackburn Alarms, we understand that theft involves more than just taking property. The effects on victims can be emotionally and financially devastating. To discuss your security concerns confidentially and under no obligation, contact us here: http://bit.ly/1bg5B8R or call us direct on 01254 739 255.

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