Shropshire farmers warned over fertiliser thefts terrorism link
Farmers and homeowners in Shropshire and Mid Wales are being urged to keep fertiliser under lock and key – in case it is stolen by terrorists.
West Mercia Police said terrorist groups have used fertiliser to make explosive devices for many years and that even in small quantities some fertilisers can cause destruction.
Catharine Jones, spokeswoman for Dyfed-Powys Police, said: "Since the early 1970s inorganic nitrogenous fertilisers have been misused by terrorists as an ingredient in homemade explosives.
"While the concern affects all solid nitrate fertilisers, the widespread use of ammonium nitrate-based fertilisers is of particular significance.
She added: "At this time of year particularly, when large amounts of fertiliser are being delivered to farmers and growers across the UK, anyone who handles or stores fertiliser should consider its security, preventing it from falling into the wrong hands."
She said that while it has not yet received any reports of thefts linked with terrorism, the force takes fertiliser theft "very seriously".
The region is close to major urban areas such as Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool.
She added: "There is no doubt that terrorists will target those things that are easy to obtain."
She urged anyone who saw suspicious activity on their premises to report it to police.
"The key objective is to prevent your fertiliser being stolen in the first instance."
For more information, visit the Centre for Protection of National Infrastructure online at www.cpni.gov.uk or call the police on 101.
