Kent Police’s rural crime team has now recovered suspected stolen items worth more than £2 million since the start of the year.
The team of officers, who patrol the whole county, seized the property from locations including Dover, Dartford, Cranbrook and Faversham.
These included 11 caravans and motorhomes, nine other vehicles, five quad bikes, six diggers, four motorbikes, a tractor, six trailers and a horse box.
They also seized several different types of plant machinery, including a forklift truck and around 4,000 tools.
The enforcement led to the arrest of 20 suspects who are currently on bail while enquiries are underway.
NFU Mutual’s new rural crime report has shown that rural crime cost the UK an estimated £52.8 million in 2023, up from £50.6 million the previous year.
The rural insurer has said all indications suggest rural crime is becoming more organised, sophisticated and determined in its nature.
Rural crime
Sgt Ross Haybourne said: “Crime in the countryside can sometimes go unreported but, as our recent results show, officers are taking the fight to those who are suspected of targeting farms, businesses and other victims in rural areas.
“Where suspected stolen property is seized, we will go the extra mile to reunite it with victims.
“We also focus on offences affecting the equine community, wildlife and heritage sites, and remain mindful that residents and business owners can often feel vulnerable in rural areas.”
Haybourne said that, as a result, communities will often see constables completing regular proactive operations including high profile road checks, search warrants and arrests.
“If anyone has concerns about this type of crime, I would encourage you to report it via the Kent Police website.
“We appreciate you are our ‘eyes and ears’ for information and will get in touch at our earliest opportunity.”
