Farm machinery targeted in cash machine ram-raids
© Devon and Cornwall Police Farmers in Devon and Cornwall are being urged to secure machinery after a spate of cashpoint thefts in which stolen telehandlers and 4x4s were used to rip ATMs from buildings.
In the latest theft on 2 February, a John Deere telehandler was used to ram the wall at a Co-op store in Plympton, near Plymouth, in Devon allowing for two cashpoint machines to be removed from the building, and a large sum of cash stolen.
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The telehandler, the truck and trailer used in the theft had been stolen from the Smithaleigh area of Plympton.
The JD telehandler, which was left at the scene, was stolen from Piggeries Farm, Smithaleigh, on 1 February.
At least four people were involved in the cash machine raid at Co-op and are seen arriving at the scene in three different vehicles, all of which were later found burnt out in a forest nearby at a Sparkwell paintball site.
Det Cons Andrew Trott-Rodgers, investigating, said police believe the incident is linked to a series of ram-raid burglaries over the past four months and was carried out by a highly organised and sophisticated criminal gang.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Devon and Cornwall Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 50260027042, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Machinery theft prevention tips
Following the raids, Devon and Cornwall Police have released these farm machinery theft prevention tips:
Secure property boundaries – Install fences, gates and warning signs around the farm.
Lock equipment and buildings – Use high-quality locks on bars, sheds and storage facilities.
Install security cameras – Set up CCTV cameras in strategic locations on farm to monitor activity.
Engage in Farm Watch – Collaborate with police and neighbouring farmers to share information and report suspicious activity.
Track equipment and livestock – Use GPS trackers on machinery and branding or tagging on livestock.
Secure fuel and chemicals – Store fuel, fertilisers and pesticides in locked and well-lit areas.
Mark and register your equipment – Engrave identification numbers and register your machinery.
Regularly inspect your perimeters – Conduct routine checks for signs of tampering or trespassing.