NFU Mutual is warning farmers to increase farmyard security following a spring surge in tractor global positioning system (GPS) thefts.
Thefts have been reported in East Anglia, the Midlands and north west of England in recent weeks, and the rural insurer is concerned it could spread to other parts of the UK.
“Thieves are stealing all makes and models of GPS control units, together with screens and domes,” says Bob Henderson of NFU Mutual’s agricultural engineering field team, who adds it is worryingly similar to last year’s unprecedented surge in GPS theft, which saw equipment stolen from farms across the UK.
Mr Henderson reckons thieves are taking advantage of increased spring activity on farms to identify targets and, with lockdown easing, criminals may feel able to travel without risk of being stopped.
“These criminals are well-organised and know what they are looking for – so it’s essential that farmers remove GPS kit when possible when it’s not in use and store it securely. It’s also well worth beefing up security in farm yards, machinery sheds and on tractors to make it harder for thieves to operate.”
NFU Mutual and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) are urging farmers with GPS systems to activate PIN number security codes. On older models without PIN security, marking kit with farm names and postcodes in indelible ink or forensically can make it harder for thieves to sell on and help police and potential buyers spot stolen equipment.
“Demand for GPS equipment is fuelling this type of crime and we are urging people to think twice before purchasing second-hand items online,” said DC Chris Piggott who co-ordinates the agricultural vehicle crime unit at NaVCIS.
“Although police have shut some bogus sellers down, they are emerging again under false names and purporting to be UK sellers. Anyone considering a purchase should get photos showing serial numbers before parting with any money and check with the manufacturer that it is not recorded stolen on their system before completing the transaction.”
“We also urge farmers to report suspicious activity including drones over farms, vehicles visiting that are not known to the farm, or trespassers on 101, and if a crime is taking place call 999.”
