11 Metal Gates Stolen in Rural Canterbury Heist – Farmers Warned!
Bold Theft Hits Kent Farmland
Kent Police have launched an urgent warning after 11 galvanised metal gates vanished from farmland near Canterbury. The theft took place between 5pm on Thursday, January 16 and 9am the next day in the quiet village of Bossingham, just south of Canterbury.
Police Hunt Thieves – Witnesses Urgently Needed
Officers are on the case, appealing for anyone who spotted suspicious behaviour in the area during that time. If you have any information, call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/9719/25. Prefer to stay anonymous? Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Rural Crime Warning From Kent Police
Douglas Robertson of Kent Police’s Rural Task Force warns that stealing metal gates and fencing hits farmers where it hurts – their wallets.
“Losing metal gates and fencing to thieves can be very costly, and we urge landowners to take steps to secure as much as possible and property-mark these items,” Robertson said.
He urges landowners to use serial numbers or unique marks to help police track stolen goods.
“When we recover suspected stolen equipment, having unique marks or serial numbers on them helps officers reunite them with their proper owners,” he added.
How To Protect Your Land – Kent Police’s Top Tips
- Mark All Gates and Fencing – Clearly mark your metalwork in multiple spots to scare off thieves and aid recovery.
- Snap Your Gear – Photograph gates and fencing, especially any unique features.
- Be Wary Buying Second-Hand – Check for tampering and suspicious sales. Report anything dodgy.
- Lock Up Properly – Reverse hinges and use padlocks inside welded metal boxes to make stealing harder.
- Put Up Security Signs – Warn thieves your property is marked and traceable.
Kent Police’s Rural Task Force has specialist gear to help mark your property. For advice or assistance, contact them directly.
Rural Crime on the Rise – Police Boost Patrols
This brazen theft is part of a worrying trend in rural crime, with farms targeted for valuable metal, machinery, and livestock. Kent Police are stepping up patrols and urge landowners to report suspicious activity immediately.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
