Work of Humberside Police Rural Task Force placed in the spotlight
Humberside Police has placed the spotlight on the work of its Rural Task Force and the importance of work tackling rural crime.
The special feature was showcased as part of the National Rural Crime Week of Action.
Rural Task Force Sergeant Kevin Jones said: “Years ago, there may have been a misconception that rural crime was only hare coursing or sheep rustling, committed by opportunistic offenders.
“Today, the reality is very different, and it is evolving.
“Rural crime is increasingly linked to organised crime, committed by sophisticated and meticulous criminals who plan their offending carefully.
“These criminals can operate across borders, nationally and internationally, targeting our farms for highly valuable and often role-essential agricultural machinery and equipment.
“It is important to emphasise that there is not just one victim of rural crime. The farmer is not only left to deal with the immediate financial loss. They can also suffer significant emotional and welfare impacts. There is disruption to their livelihoods, their families and their businesses.
“Rural crime is therefore not simply an attack on an individual farmer. It is an attack on our rural economy, our food industry and the communities that depend upon them.
“Thankfully, the importance of tackling rural crime is becoming increasingly recognised. The voice of our rural communities is carrying greater weight and is being heard across law enforcement, the criminal justice system, key stakeholders and Parliament, including through legislative changes.
“Here in Humberside, our Rural Task Force is made up of passionate, committed and community-focused officers who understand the vulnerabilities, impact and concerns facing our farming and rural communities.
“We work collaboratively with our Farm Watch groups, policing volunteers and Special Constabulary. We work across policing pillars with colleagues in neighbourhood policing, patrol and specialist teams and the partnership approach is crucial.
“Together, we aim to make Humberside a hostile place for those who seek to exploit our rural communities and, importantly, reduce the fear of rural crime among the people who live and work here.
“I would urge the public to report incidents to the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.
“You know your communities better than anyone. If something does not look right or feels suspicious, there is a good chance that your instincts are right.
“We are listening. We are working with you. And we are committed to protecting our rural communities.”