Wealden Police Launch Crackdown on Rural Burglaries
Wealden Police have kicked off a high-impact day of action to fight burglaries in the countryside just as the nights turn darker and crime risks rise.
Operation Scarecrow Targets Farms and Villages
On Wednesday, November 2, officers from the Wealden Neighbourhood Policing Team hit farms, rural villages, and small businesses. Their mission? To offer expert advice and support to help protect valuable tools, equipment, and property.
Some locals revealed they’d been hit by burglars before. In response, police handed out prevention kits, including Selecta DNA marking kits to tag valuable gear and eye-catching CCTV posters to deter thieves. Owners were also guided on registering property photos with the UK’s National Property Register and using serial numbers for easier recovery if stolen.
Farms visited included spots in Selmeston, Chiddingly, East Hoathly, Whitesmith, Waldron, Forest Row, Blackham, Groombridge, Wadhurst, Cowden, and Holtye. From cattle holdings to stud farms, officers covered it all.
Top Police Tips to Secure Your Rural Property
- Lock away equipment in secure buildings when not in use
- Install alarms on storage buildings
- Keep expensive items and vehicles out of sight
- Mark and register your tools and machinery
- Fit outdoor security lights
- Use strong locks on sheds, garages, and outbuildings
- Secure windows and door frames
- Consider security bars and grilles for vulnerable openings
- Ensure gates can’t be lifted off or bolts removed
- Regularly check all security systems
- Use locking posts or barriers to control yard access
Extras for serious protection include CCTV cameras covering key areas, monitored intruder alarms, and entry control systems like intercoms or keypads. Police also recommend limiting access points to a single gated entrance.
Rural Crime: The Hidden Threat to Communities
Rural crime often slips under the radar but can have a big impact – boosting insurance premiums, hiking food prices, and damaging local livelihoods.
Want to know more about rural crime and how to stop it? Visit Sussex Police Rural Crime Advice.
If you suspect a crime is happening or about to happen, report it online or get in touch even if you’re unsure. Better to speak up and help the police act.
You can also report anonymously through the National Farmers’ Union Rural Crime Reporting Line at 0800 783 0137. This covers:
- Industrial fly-tipping
- Hare coursing
- Machinery theft
- Livestock theft
Stay vigilant. Protect your patch before the thieves strike!
