Rural criminals using twine to mark ‘soft touch’ farms

Rural criminals are tying pieces of twine to gates and farm entrances to signpost sites they believe are easy targets, police have warned.

The unusual activity has been detected on a number of farms in Shropshire in recent weeks.

Farmers who find any pieces of baling twine or similar tied to their gates or fences are being urged to contact police.

See also: Video – Farm bunds fend off rural criminals

Graham Donaldson, rural and business crime officer for West Mercia Police, said: “Several instances have been reported to adjacent police forces regarding pieces of twine being tied to gates on entrances to farms and fields.

“This activity is believed to be a marker for criminals to identify that the location is seen as a ‘soft touch’.

“Should you see any of these markers please remove it and report the matter to your local police.”

You can report any suspicious activity or suspected marking incidents to West Mercia Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.