Lead Theft Foiled at East Farleigh Church
Police swooped at 4.20 a.m. on Monday, June 20, after reports of four men loading lead into a vehicle at East Farleigh church.
Chase Ends in Foot Escape
Officers spotted a dark green Rover 75 with foreign plates leaving the scene. They followed it to Fullingpits Avenue, where the suspects bolted on foot. Despite a thorough search, police couldn’t find the men, but they seized the car and a stash of stolen lead.
The vigilance of a local resident and the prompt response by one of our patrols ensured the stolen property was recovered,” said Sergeant Darren Walshaw of Kent Police’s Rural Task Force.
Police Urge Rural Residents to Stay Alert
The Rural Task Force warns metal thieves are targeting isolated rural sites. They advise property owners to:
- Mark lead for security
- Install alarms and CCTV
- Lock gates to prevent vehicle access
- Secure ladders, tools, wheelie bins, and wheelbarrows
These simple steps help stop thieves accessing rooftops and whisking away metal.
Help Police Crack the Case
Witnesses who saw suspicious activity near East Farleigh church or spotted the Rover 75 in Fullingpits Avenue are urged to come forward. Drivers and residents with dashcam or CCTV footage are especially valuable to the investigation.
Call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting crime number 46/118998/22. To stay anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or submit info online.
The Rural Task Force is also tackling rural burglaries, livestock worrying, and hare-coursing with partner agencies. For top tips on rural crime prevention, visit Kent Police Rural Crime Prevention.
