Securing the Countryside: Tackling Rural Crime in North Wales

We recently completed the installation of a new security system at a local farm. Alongside the project, we were touched to receive some thoughtful gifts from our client, some fresh eggs and a handmade owl box as pictured, a gesture that highlights the strong relationships we are fortunate to build through our work. While these moments are always appreciated, they are also a reminder of why effective security in the countryside is so vital.

Rural crime continues to be a growing issue, ranging from farm equipment, quad bike and GPS theft to livestock theft, fuel theft, poaching and fly-tipping. These crimes not only cause significant financial losses but also have a devastating impact on farmers, landowners and rural businesses.

Protecting North Wales Farms and Rural Communities

During her year as High Sheriff of Clwyd, Karen spent considerable time working with rural communities to understand the impact of farm crime, country crime and organised rural crime. That experience continues to shape how we approach our work at Crime Prevention Services today. We recognise that rural crime prevention requires more than just technology, it’s about community support, working with police, and raising awareness of the risks.

From livestock theft prevention to tackling fuel theft and GPS theft, we are committed to helping farmers and landowners across North Wales and the wider UK protect what matters most. Our work is about more than just installing equipment, it’s about safeguarding livelihoods, preserving heritage, and ensuring that rural communities can continue to thrive. And sometimes, like at Clyttir Farm, it’s about the little moments too, whether that’s fresh eggs or a handmade owl box reminding us of the trust and relationships we build with our clients.

Rural Crime in Wales – The Statistics

According to NFU Mutual’s latest data, rural crime remains a challenge nationwide, with Wales experiencing one of the more notable rises in recent figures.

• In 2024, the cost of rural crime in Wales rose by 18%, reaching nearly £2.8 million, the highest figure in more than a decade.
• Across the UK, rural crime costs fell overall to £44.1 million, highlighting that Wales remains a particular hotspot.
• Agricultural vehicle theft, including tractor theft, quad bike theft and ATV theft, remains one of the biggest challenges, costing the UK nearly £7 million in 2024.
• Livestock theft caused losses of £3.4 million nationwide, with Wales experiencing some of the most organised raids, such as the theft of 73 sheep in Carmarthenshire in 2024.
• Other key threats include fuel theft (diesel and heating oil), GPS theft, and theft from outbuildings.

It’s not just about financial losses. Rural crime impacts farmers’ mental health, leaving many feeling vulnerable, isolated and unsafe in their own homes.

Rural Crime in North Wales – A Local Focus

Here in North Wales, rural communities face unique challenges. With so many remote farmsteads, open land and unlit access points, farm crime and countryside crime can be difficult to police. The North Wales Police Rural Crime Team has become a leading model for the UK, pioneering approaches to tackling issues such as:

• Poaching and hare coursing
• Illegal hunting and wildlife crime
• Heritage crime, such as lead theft from churches or damage to ancient monuments
• Fly-tipping and environmental crime

The Welsh Government has also launched a new Rural Crime Strategy (2025–2028), built around the “4Ps”- Prepare, Prevent, Pursue and Protect. This includes more resources for rural policing, new technology such as drones for surveillance, and better collaboration with farming communities.

Need Help Protecting Your Farm?

If you’re concerned about rural crime in North Wales or across the UK, we can help. From farm security systems to GPS theft prevention and livestock theft security, we provide bespoke solutions designed for rural life.

📞 Contact our team today to discuss how we can secure your property.