Commodity watch by policy officer Sarah Morrell
Earlier this month the latest Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) agriculture and rural crime statistics for Northern Ireland (NI) were published. In the 12 months from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023, there were 237 agricultural crimes recorded in NI, an increase of 41 on the previous 12 months. Despite this increase, this was the second lowest financial year figure for agricultural crimes since the data series began in 2010/11. Five of the policing districts showed an increase in levels of agricultural crime, with Antrim and Newtownabbey having the greatest increase and Mid Ulster having the greatest decrease.
Keeping a track of rural crime figures is necessary, but statistics do not reflect the impact on the farm family behind the figures. Rural crime not only has an economic impact, but it disrupts the day to day running of a farm business and causes unnecessary stress to a farming family. Police recognise the interference and harm criminals cause to rural dwellers and farmers and want to stop those who target farmers and their property across rural parts of NI. For this to be successful farmers must support the PSNI by reporting crime and providing as much information as possible to stop criminals.
Farmers can be reluctant to report rural crime or even suspicious behaviour for varying reasons. It is important to report if you are a victim of crime or if you see suspicious activity to either the PSNI or Crimestoppers. Reporting crime will hopefully help bring the criminal to justice, protects your community and yourself by preventing further crimes and other people becoming victims. Reporting a crime is quick, easy and can be done anonymously. To report anonymously call Crimestoppers 0800555111 or visit their website.
Non-emergencies can be reported to the PSNI by calling 101 or by making a report on the PSNI website. Many people have found making reports online to be a good process as it is quick and a crime reference number will be provided to allow you to follow up on the progress of the case. In case of an emergency always call 999.
While the rate of rural crime incidents has increased in the last 12 month, agricultural crime represented less than one per cent of all burglary, robbery and theft offences in NI. To keep rural crime a priority in the face of PSNI budget cuts and limited resources, farmers and rural dwellers must report crime and suspicious behaviour, so that resources can be put to tackling it.
