Kent Cops Snag Over £4 Million in Stolen Gear
Kent Police’s Rural Task Force have smashed it, earning the Best Team award at the Construction Equipment Security and Registration (CESAR) Awards. The ceremony took place on 6 November 2025 at JCB’s World HQ near Stoke-on-Trent.
Cracking Down on Crime and Theft
Between January 2024 and October 2025, the task force arrested 210 suspects and stopped 375 vehicles or people for searches. Their efforts have returned a staggering haul to rightful owners, including:
- 39 vehicles
- 29 caravans and motorhomes
- 12 trailers
- 12 excavators
- 11 quad bikes
- 4 horse boxes
- 3 tractors
- 10 generators
- A telehandler
- Numerous tools
Protecting Kent and Beyond
Aside from busting crooks, the team has helped locals with crime prevention, performing site visits, and marking over 5,900 items to make stolen goods easy to track.
They’ve also targeted criminals moving stolen goods through the Port of Dover en route to mainland Europe, cutting off smuggling routes cold.
“This award is a testament to the relentless dedication and professionalism of the team,” said Sergeant Ross Haybourne.
“These efforts have not only led to the recovery of millions of pounds worth of stolen property, but have also made a real difference to communities across Kent and beyond. We’re proud to see the hard work recognised on a national stage.”
