Dyfed-Powys Police are advising the farming community and other owners of quad bikes to take extra steps to protect their property.
Since September, 11 quad bikes have been stolen from farms and private properties around the force area. Seven of these crimes have happened in South Powys and Carmarthenshire in November. As well as targeting farm buildings at night time one vehicle was stolen in the middle of the day from the owner’s farm yard.
Sergeant Matthew Howells, rural spokesperson for the force said: “The longer nights along with the bad weather of recent weeks are ideal cover for thieves to go about their activities undetected. I do not want to cause unnecessary alarm for residents however there are some basic crime prevention measures that can be taken to safeguard property.
"Quad bikes are expensive and essential tools for farmers and their loss can have a big impact on the business both financially and operationally. I would advise owners to property mark vehicles, even fitting tracker devices, secure them within locked buildings when not in use, keep a record of serial numbers and take photographs of the vehicles. When leaving the vehicle, even for the shortest period of time, remove the key from the ignition switch.
"If possible secure quad bikes to ground anchor points using high security chains and padlocks.”
As well as the rise in quad bike thefts Dyfed-Powys Police are also seeing the thefts of hand and garden tools being reported, in particular chainsaws.
“Farmers also need to consider their wider on farm security measures. CCTV and linked alarms can be a cost effective way to protect your property. With advances in smart phone technology owners can monitor activity on their farm yards remotely and even be notified when alarm sensors have been triggered. Farmers need to talk to their insurance companies as in some instances they may qualify for a reduction in their insurance premiums if fitting better security systems.” Sergeant Howells added
The farming community and rural residents are asked to be vigilant at all times and to report any suspicious vehicles and people immediately by dialling 101. Where there is a crime ongoing then dial 999.
Sergeant Howells continued, “One such call recently resulted in the recovery of a quad bike before it was reported stolen. Officers will continue to work with farmers to give crime prevention advice and gather intelligence to target patrols with an aim to deter these offences being committed in the first place. If you have any concerns then please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.”