Police issue advice following increase in quad bike and ATV thefts

Wiltshire Police have received an increasing number of reports of stolen quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in recent weeks, particularly in South West and South East Wiltshire, with the most recent being this week. In light of this, the public are reminded to check the security of their agricultural equipment and plant machinery to make theft as difficult as possible for criminals.

Since the beginning of the year, 12 quad bikes or ATVs have been reported stolen to Wiltshire Police, however we believe this figure may be higher and some thefts may not have been reported.

Wiltshire Police offer owners of quad bikes and ATVs the following advice:

• Consider installing trackers on your vehicles – visit the police-approved Secured By Design website for more information.
• Keep good records of your vehicles – take photographs from different angles of the vehicle, record the serial/chassis numbers, record the model number and any distinguishing features. Keep a personal record of your vehicle and register it on the national property database www.immobilise.com.  
• Mark your property – mark an obscure part of the vehicle with your postcode and property name or number, or use a DNA kit to forensically mark your vehicle. More information about forensic marking kits can be found on the Secured by Design website.
• Ensure your vehicle is secured when it is not in use by storing it in a locked outbuilding (preferably with further deterrents such as CCTV or motion-sensor security lighting). Make sure keys are stored securely and not kept within the vehicle/ in the ignition.
• Consider installing loud alarms on outbuildings
• Report suspicious vehicles and number plates entering your yard or grounds to the police, noting the dates and times

All rural incidents which are reported to the police are reviewed by the specialist Rural Crime Team, who also link in with neighbouring police forces to share intelligence to get the best chance to reunite victims with their stolen property. Wiltshire Police take all crime reports seriously. If you have been a victim of theft, dial 101 or report via the Wiltshire Police website. If you notice suspicious activity or witness a crime in progress, dial 999.