Warning after 11 quad bike thefts from Mid Wales farms
Eleven quad bikes have been stolen from farms across Mid Wales in the last three months.
Dyfed-Powys Police said the thefts, which have happened since the start of September, have seen thieves targeting farm buildings at night time. 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," Sgt Howells said.
"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."
