Rural Crime Squad Targets Horse Thieves in Operation Gallop
Rural crime officers have been cracking down on equine thieves across the region in a nationwide blitz called Operation Gallop. The team hit stables hard, offering vital security advice and taking steps to protect prized ponies and expensive gear.
Mark Your Tack and Mind Your Speed
Officers went trailer to trailer, introducing forensic marking on horse boxes, trailers, and valuable tack. This clever move makes stolen gear traceable and less attractive to crooks. Riders were also warned about driving safely around horses on roads, urged to slow to 10mph, keep a 2-metre distance, and be patient when overtaking.
PC Lovelock: “Simple Tips Can Stop Thieves”
“Our efforts focused on sharing crime prevention and property marking advice as well as promoting safe road passing. We were made very welcome by all the yards and stables and hopefully shared some simple tips that deter thieves by making valuable tack uniquely identifiable and harder to sell.”
Community Effort to Beat Rural Crime
The week-long campaign aims to boost community awareness and tighten security across rural areas. With everyone working together, officers hope to put a dent in horse-related crime and keep the countryside safe for riders and their four-legged friends.
