West Mercia Police sees success with Rural Crime Action Week operations

Officers from West Mercia Police's Rural Crime Teams successfully conducted a series of operations to combat rural crime and promote community engagement during Rural Crime Action Week from 7th to 11th September.

The week-long initiative involved numerous actions across the county, including the recovery of stolen property, wildlife patrols, and collaboration with partner agencies.

Throughout the week, Shropshire's Rural and Business Crime Officers distributed Smartwater kits, GPS trackers, and Bluetooth devices to farms and businesses to bolster security against rural crime.

On 7th September, an off-road quad bike stolen from a farm in Ledbury was swiftly recovered in Malvern due to the security tag fitted, underscoring the necessity of such devices.

Operation Whitebeam in the south of Shropshire aimed to disrupt criminal activities relating to rural crime, while officers helped identify a stolen caravan in Bromyard on 8th September.

Additional activities included visiting a new solar farm in Telford and providing crime prevention advice and signage.

In Clent Hills, officers engaged with dog walkers regarding livestock worries and distributed SmartWater property marking kits.

Shropshire-based officer, PC Phil Nock, seized a vehicle in Shifnal believed to be involved in criminal activities.

Joint patrols with Worcestershire Wildlife Trust highlighted concerns over anti-social behaviour and wildlife crime, offering reassurance to communities.

At the Kidderminster Machinery Sale and Market Drayton Auction on 11th September, officers ensured stolen property didn't enter the marketplace and promoted crime prevention techniques.

Throughout Rural Crime Action Week, focussed patrols addressed poaching and hare coursing, reflecting the constabulary's dedication to rural safety.

Inspector Billy Keys emphasised the team's year-round work, while Sergeant Alex Webb highlighted community engagement and direct actions against criminal activities.

West Mercia Police encourages property owners to use recognised property databases to secure valuable equipment.

Anyone with information on rural crimes can report it via the West Mercia Police website or by calling 101.

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