The Ulster Farmers’ Union has called for stronger intervention from the Department of Justice to combat escalating rural crime, following the publication of the NFU Mutual Rural Crime Report, which revealed a sharp increase in offences in Northern Ireland despite an overall decline across the UK.
According to the NFU Mutual report, rural crime cost Northern Ireland an estimated £2.2 million in 2025, marking a 24% increase on 2024 figures, while the overall UK-wide cost of rural crime fell by 6%.
UFU President John McLenaghan said, “These figures should serve as a serious wakeup call to policymakers. Rural crime poses a serious and escalating threat to farm families across Northern Ireland, with the latest figures showing a particularly alarming rise in offences here at a time when figures elsewhere across the UK are declining.
“Even more alarming is the extent to which incidents continue to go unreported, meaning the true scale of the problem is likely far greater than figures suggest. The PSNI can only allocate resources based on demand, and this can only be done when the true extent of the problem is reflected through accurate and timely reporting,” he said.
“We strongly urge all farmers and members of the rural community to report every incident to police, regardless of how minor it may appear. Farm businesses are already operating under intense financial pressure, and the additional burden created by theft, vandalism and other criminal activity further threatens profitability and long-term viability.
“The financial impact is immediate and severe, placing already stretched farm enterprises under further strain while undermining confidence and sustainability within the sector. It is important to recognise that the impact extends beyond immediate financial loss. There is a considerable emotional burden that comes with rural crime,” Mr McLenaghan continued.
“Alongside reporting incidents, practical measures such as documenting machinery, keeping photographic records, investing in tracking technology, and utilising initiatives like trailer marking and freeze branding livestock can play an important role in deterring crime and improving recovery rates. In parallel, policymakers need to ensure that the PSNI have the powers to tackle rural crime effectively on the ground, and the UFU is taking that message to Stormont.
“Rural crime must be stamped out. While increased investment and resources are essential, a coordinated approach between farmers and the PSNI is equally critical to ensure authorities fully understand the scale and severity of the issue,” added the president.
The UFU are members of the Rural Crime Partnership and remains actively engaged with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, politicians and key stakeholders, including DAERA and the Department of Justice, to ensure rural crime remains a priority issue.
