Kent Police have arrested 20 individuals in connection with a series of thefts that have resulted in the loss of items valued at over £20 million since the start of the year. The stolen property, which has now been recovered, was seized from various locations including Dover, Dartford, Cranbrook, and Faversham.
The extensive list of recovered items includes:
- 11 caravans and motorhomes
- Nine other vehicles
- Five quad bikes
- Six diggers
- Four motorbikes
- A tractor
- Six trailers
- A horse box
- Several types of plant machinery, including a forklift truck
- Around 4,000 tools
Police Sergeant Ross Haybourne commented on the success of the operation, emphasizing the importance of addressing crime in rural areas. “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.”
He also highlighted the focus on offences affecting the equine community, wildlife, and heritage sites, and reassured residents and business owners of the proactive measures being taken. “Communities will often see our 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.”
A spokesperson for Kent Police added, “Kent Police’s Rural Task Force 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. The enforcement led to the arrest of 20 suspects who are currently on bail while enquiries are underway.”
The arrests and recovery of stolen goods mark a significant achievement for the Rural Task Force, demonstrating their commitment to combating rural crime and supporting the affected communities.
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