The Ulster Farmers’ Union is reminding members that Crimestoppers UK have a dedicated hotline for reporting rural crime and providing information about felony incidents.
Commenting on Crimestoppers rural crime hotline, UFU deputy president Victor Chestnutt, said, “Rural crime is on the rise with high value items such as tractors, quad bikes, and indeed livestock, falling victim to the actions of rural thieves. These crimes have left farmers and rural dwellers feeling isolated and anxious in their own homes and farms, not to mention the devasting impact on the local area. This is why Crimestoppers UK hotline is an essential 24/7 service for the rural community, providing support and help in the unfortunate event of a theft.
“I encourage all UFU members and those in the rural community who have been a victim of rural crime, regardless of the value of the item or livestock stolen, to report the incident to the PSNI for investigation. Or if you have information that would help the PSNI to bring the perpetrators of rural thefts to justice, please lift the phone and contact Crimestoppers. Any amount of information no matter how small it may seem may prove valuable to the PSNI when investigating rural crimes.”
The Crimestoppers UK hotline can be reached through the Rural Crime reporting line on 0800 783 0137. UFU members can also access the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), new ‘Rural Crime Hub’, an online service for farmers which has advice and tips on how to prevent rural crime. The Rural Crime Hub can be accessed by visiting the website of the NFU website.