Police warning following thefts in the area

Dyfed-Powys Police has warned the farming community around Welshpool to be vigilant following a spate of thefts.

The police are advising rural residents to ensure security measures are in place to protect quad bikes and other farm equipment in response to the thefts.

Over 60 reports of stolen quad bikes across the force have been reported in 2024.

Dyfed-Powys Police has acquired 150 SelectaDNA Rural Kits to support their efforts in combating rural crime. These advanced DNA asset-marking kits will offer free property marking services to farmers, helping them protect their valuable equipment and machinery.

In addition to property marking, our Rural Crime Team officers, who are also qualified Crime Prevention Tactical Advisors (CPTAC), will visit farms to conduct comprehensive crime prevention audits. 

These audits are designed to ensure farms have the best security measures to deter criminal activity and safeguard their livelihoods.

A statement said: "The SelectaDNA Rural Kits use a unique DNA solution that can be applied to tools, vehicles, machinery, and other valuable assets. This marking is virtually invisible but can be detected under UV light, providing an indisputable link between stolen property and its rightful owner. This has proven to be a powerful deterrent against theft and an invaluable tool in recovering stolen items.

"Rural communities are often targeted by criminals due to their remote locations and the high value of farming equipment. By offering free property marking and crime prevention visits, Dyfed-Powys Police aim to empower farmers with effective tools and advice to protect their assets and reduce the risk of crime."

Sergeant Paul Roberts from our Rural Crime Team, said: “I ask that local farmers and other quad bike owners take appropriate action to minimise the opportunities of these thefts occurring. This includes removing keys from ignitions after use and locking barns or outbuildings wherever the vehicles may be kept.

“I’m aware that thefts of quad bikes and farming machinery causes disruption to farmers’ work, as well as the financial implications, and I would like to reassure the public that police are thoroughly investigating these matters.

“I encourage anyone living in rural communities to remain vigilant to this type of theft, and to report any suspicious vehicles or behaviour to police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The Rural Crime Team will be attending marts across the force, where community members can bring items such as tools, machinery, and bikes to be marked.

Farmers can also arrange a visit from our Rural Crime Team to mark equipment and conduct a security audit by emailing ruralcrimeteam@dyfed-powys.police.uk

Visit our website for more information and advice about rural crime and what prevention measure you can take - https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/