Rural crime increase to nearly 7% in past year, says NFU Mutual

Rural crime in Wales saw a significant increase of 6.7% in 2023, amounting to an estimated £2.4 million, according to a new report by NFU Mutual.

This trend mirrors the wider UK, where the total cost of rural crime surged to £52.8 million, up from £50.6 million in the previous year.

The report showed a rise in the theft of Global Positioning System (GPS) units, with claims increasing by 137% to £4.2 million.

NFU Mutual believe organised gangs have been targeting these high-value items, often striking multiple farms in one night and returning weeks later to steal replacements.

GPS units, which cost over £10,000 each, are used for guiding agricultural machinery.

Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) also remained top targets, with thefts rising by 9% to £3.2 million in claims.

Livestock theft continued to be a significant issue, with an estimated cost of £2.7 million across the UK.

Dog attacks resulting in severe injuries or death for farm animals was worth an estimated £2.4 million, a 30% increase from the previous year.

A survey of NFU Mutual Agents revealed that 91% believe thieves are becoming more organised, with 82% knowing farmers affected by rural crime.

86% reported that rural crime negatively impacts farmers' mental wellbeing, and 77% knew farmers who had been repeat victims.

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