Concerns people in Wiltshire too afraid to report rural crime
A report's found rural crime is linked to the international drug trade
There's concerns that rural parts of Wiltshire are being targeted by international drug gangs and there's concerns people are too afraid to report rural crime.
A report by the National Rural Crime Network has identified links between rural crime and the international drug trade.
The report calls for rural crime to be given more attention, saying it meets the criteria to be considered 'serious and organised'.
Wiltshire Police say criminal activity in rural areas of the county isn't reported as much as it could, or should, be.
This lack of reporting, they say, leaves them with an unclear image of how local communities are affected.
It's estimated that costs related to the theft of agricultural machinery and vehicles rose by almost 30% last year to £11.7 million.
Regional tactical lead for rural crime is Superintendent Doug Downing, who says they've acted within the force to tackle rural crime.
“Over the past year we have looked at ways we can tackle the complexities of rural crime across the Force area.
"We have expanded the team and re-equipped them with the latest equipment that will help make Wiltshire a hostile environment for organised crime groups to function.”
The report found there's a widespread fear of both the crime and first-hand victimisation. But Supt Downing is calling on us to help tackle the issue.
“I would encourage the people living and working in rural areas to report any suspicious activity online, by calling 101 or 999 if they see a crime taking place.
"We need the support of the whole community to help us disrupt these gangs and opportunist thieves by reporting as quickly as possible.”