Wealden Police Launch Operation Scarecrow to Tackle Rural Burglaries
As the nights get darker, Wealden Police have kicked off a major crackdown on rural burglaries. On November 2, officers from the Wealden Neighbourhood Policing Team toured farms, villages, and small businesses to deliver vital crime prevention advice under Operation Scarecrow.
Police Bring Burglar Prevention Kits to Vulnerable Farms
Many farm owners admitted they had been hit by burglars before. To help them fight back, police handed out Selecta DNA Kits designed to mark expensive tools and machinery. They also provided CCTV warning posters and info on the UK’s National Property Register, so victims can register photos of their valued property.
Officers showed farmers how to photograph and record serial numbers of their equipment — key steps to proving ownership if theft happens again. The police visited a wide area covering Selmeston, Chiddingly, East Hoathly, Whitesmith, Waldron, Forest Row, Blackham, Groombridge, Wadhurst, Cowden, and Holtye. Farms ranged from cattle operations to stud farms.
Top Tips to Secure Farms and Rural Property
- Lock equipment away securely when not in use
- Install burglar alarms on buildings housing valuables
- Keep costly items and vehicles out of sight
- Mark tools and register them with property databases
- Fit outside security lights and visible alarms
- Ensure windows, doors, and doorframes are sturdy and well maintained
- Equip sheds, garages, and outbuildings with strong locks
- Consider security bars or grilles for vulnerable spots
- Make gates tamper-proof by securing bolts and fittings
- Regularly test security systems to make sure they work
- Use locking posts or barriers to control wide yard access points
Extra Steps for Bulletproof Security
- Install automatic lights that activate at dusk and switch off at dawn
- Set up CCTV cameras covering the most vulnerable areas
- Fit monitored intruder alarms for constant protection
- Use entry control systems like infrared sensors, intercoms, or keypads
- Restrict access with a single gated entrance, closing off unused private entries
Rural Crime Hits Hidden Nerve – Here’s How to Help
Rural crime is a widespread but often underreported issue. It drives up 123. Don’t hesitate—even if you’re unsure, the police prefer to investigate rather than miss a chance to stop criminal acts.
You can also make anonymous reports via The National Farmers’ Union’s Rural Crime Reporting Line on 0800 783 0137. They cover crimes like:
- Large-scale industrial fly-tipping
- Hare coursing
- Machinery theft
- Livestock theft
Protect your farm and community now—don’t give crooks a foothold this winter.
