Cattle walking in Dartmoor National Park on a sunny September day, stock image. (Image: Getty Images)
A RURAL crime team in the south west has shared some advice to help farmers prevent livestock theft.
Devon and Cornwall Police have provided steps that you can take to stop criminals from stealing the animals on your land.
Their advice is as follows:
- Padlock all gates
- Ensure stock is clearly marked and records are up to date
- Graze livestock away from roads
- Check stock regularly and at varying times
- Ask neighbours to report unusual vehicles loading sheep
- Gate or fence alarms
- CCTV where practicable
- Sign up to DC alert https://alerts.dc.police.uk/
The police force have also suggested that if you are a victim of livestock theft, you must contact the police immediately - on 999 if the crime is in progress, or 101 if it has already happened. They say to be concise with information, such as exact location (What3Words), breed, age, marking, ear tag etc.
Devon and Cornwall Police have said to contact your insurers as soon as possible as well.
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