Farmers warned as 'rural crimewave' hits Scotland

17 July 2012

Posted by Neil Brunskill

Farmers in Scotland have been urged to think about security after a warning was issued about a 'rural crimewave' in the country.

The National Farmers' Union in Scotland said livestock rustling has increased by 165 per cent, while thefts of things like tractors and heating oil from farm properties are up by half, the Scotsman reports.

Experts believe the machinery is shipped to eastern Europe, while the animals are being illegally slaughtered and fuel is sold on the black market.

It means the cost of theft from Scottish farms reached £1.85 million last year.

Tim Price from insurer NFU Mutual is trying to raise awareness of the problem after his company found earlier this year that criminals are increasingly using manipulative tactics to enter properties.

For example, they may pretend to be seasonal labourers in order to scout out expensive machinery.

Mr Price said it is clear that "organised crime rings" now operate in the countryside.

"For the main farming areas, it's important to take security measures," he warned.

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