Kent Police’s Rural Task Force has slammed the brakes on a massive theft ring after recovering stolen plant machinery and farm vehicles worth around £200,000 in Dover.
Border Stop Sparks Major Arrests
In a sharp two-day operation, officers teamed up with Port of Dover Police, the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service, and the National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team to seize the stolen haul and nab three suspects.
On Thursday, 26 February 2026, patrols at Dover Port grew suspicious of vehicles attempting to smuggle plant machinery out of the UK. The checkpoint led to the recovery of:
- Woodchipper
- Excavator
- Trailer
- Diagnostic kit
- Tool used to alter Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs)
Two men, aged 43 and 44, were arrested on charges of handling stolen goods and possessing equipment used to aid theft. Both remain on bail as investigations continue.
High-Value Machinery Seized the Next Day
The very next day, officers stopped a lorry suspected of hauling a stolen Volvo G930 grader — valued at a whopping £150,000 — along with a suspected stolen John Deere baler.
A 31-year-old man was arrested for handling stolen goods and two driving offences. He, too, is on bail pending further enquiries.
Police Sergeant Ross Haybourne said: “These positive outcomes show what can be achieved when police officers and specialist partners work closely together. Through working collaboratively, we were able to recover valuable agricultural and construction machinery, disrupt organised criminal activity and safeguard farmers, businesses and livelihoods.”
