Police receive specialist training to combat rural machinery theft
Police officers from across Devon and Cornwall have received specialist training in identifying stolen agricultural machinery, plant and equipment during a session at Okehampton Police Station.
The training, delivered earlier this month in partnership with security marking specialists VIN Chip, aimed to strengthen the force’s ability to recognise signs of theft and establish the ownership and history of machinery.
Specialist officers and police staff attended the session, led by Nick Mayell, VIN Chip’s Trainer and Identification Specialist for Construction Plant and Agricultural Machinery and Equipment. The training explored the challenges of identifying stolen machinery, practical identification techniques and how security marking can support police investigations.
PC Clarke Orchard, force lead for farm machinery, agricultural plant and agricultural vehicle theft, said: "The practical insight shared throughout the day was invaluable, helping officers develop their understanding of theft indicators and stolen machinery identification.
"Opportunities like this are really important in strengthening our collective capability to tackle rural crime. Our thanks go to Nick and the VIN Chip team for sharing their expertise and supporting our work."
VIN Chip combines forensic security marking with intelligent asset identification technology to help establish ownership and support the identification and recovery of stolen equipment.
Nick Mayell said: "Understanding how to identify machinery and recognise potential theft indicators can make a real difference when investigating stolen equipment.
"Our training focuses on practical identification techniques, and the role security marking can play in establishing an asset's identity. It was great to see such strong engagement from colleagues in Okehampton, and we're pleased to be sharing our expertise to support their work."
Devon & Cornwall Police said it would continue working with partner organisations to share expertise and best practice, with the aim of preventing machinery theft and helping rural communities feel safe and supported.
Farm machinery and equipment theft can have a significant impact on rural businesses, affecting livelihoods and disrupting agricultural work. Being able to identify equipment and establish its provenance can help investigators determine ownership and support efforts to recover stolen assets.
For rural crime updates and information about events, follow the Devon & Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Team on Facebook at facebook.com/DCPolicerural.