The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is urging farmers across Northern Ireland to be on high alert for rural crime and ask on-farm visitors for identification (ID) to ensure their call is legitimate.
The union’s warnings come as reports of rural crime increase, particularly in the Ballymena area in Co. Antrim.
UFU deputy president, William Irvine, said: “It’s extremely disturbing to learn that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has been receiving a high number of rural crime reports in recent weeks.
“Criminals are not only taking advantage of the darker nights, but they are calling to farms during the daytime posing as employees from agriculture firms.
“I cannot stress enough how important it is for farmers to be aware of farm visitors and to ask for ID when someone arrives unexpectedly.
“If farm visitors are genuine, they will be able to produce ID or will verify who they are working for through their organisation, and will not take offence at you asking for proof.
“If you do not know the visitor at hand or have the slightest doubt, they would want you to do so for your own safety and to put your mind at ease.”
Farm security
Irvine said that, with darkness falling shortly after 4:00p.m, criminals have a bigger window of opportunity to intrude on a family farm.
“It’s extremely vital that all security is reviewed and heightened,” he said.
“Lock away all farm machinery and vehicles, especially those of high value, and never leave a tractor or quad sitting unattended with the keys in the ignition,” he advised.
“Record details of all farm machinery, take photographs and consider investing in tracking systems. Rural crime initiatives such as trailer marking and the freeze branding of livestock are there for farmers to avail of.
“Most of all, look out for one another, especially elderly neighbours who live alone. If you notice suspicious behaviour, please do not hesitate to contact the PSNI no matter how minor it may seem.
“Preventing rural crime is a collective effort and we must all be vigilant.”
