Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles have been targeted by thieves in rural Hampshire burglaries this summer. Police report thefts from outbuildings across locations including Dummer, Fareham, Tadley, Whiteley, Broughton and Lymington during June and July.
Rural criminals have been targeting quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) throughout Hampshire, with numerous theft reports received during the summer months.
Between June and July, quadbikes have been stolen alongside other equipment and tools from rural locations and outbuildings across areas including Dummer, Fareham, Tadley, Whiteley, Broughton and Lymington.
Police incidents are being examined by the specialist Country Watch Rural Crime Task Force, who collaborate with other police units to build comprehensive intelligence regarding offending patterns, identify those responsible, determine targeted areas, and collect evidence.
Meanwhile, quad and ATV owners are urged to follow the guidance below and report suspicious activity near their homes or rural properties to police. Call 999 if criminal activity or suspicious behaviour is in progress.
Maintain detailed records of your quad bikes or ATVs. Capture colour photographs from multiple angles – side, front and rear views.
Photographs must include serial/chassis numbers, model details and distinctive features.
Security mark all quads with your postcode followed by letters from your property name or number. This marking system enables police to return recovered stolen property more easily.
Register your quad at www.immobilise.com
Store ATVs as close to your property as possible, preferably in locked outbuildings equipped with CCTV and security lighting, hidden from nearby roads.
Secure vehicles using wheel clamps and/or locking posts, and keep in secure buildings. Consider ground anchor plates and chains for additional security.
Invest in specialist quad security devices (seek those approved by Secured By Design and Sold Secure).
Install GPS tracking devices.
Remove keys when vehicles aren’t being used and avoid storing them near the quad.
These vehicles are sometimes stolen by criminals who subsequently use them for further offences.
Police also want to hear from anyone who has observed quad bikes being driven in rural areas under suspicious circumstances, including convoy driving and night-time activity.
To report crime or suspicious activity in your area, contact police on 101, or use the report tool at www.hampshire.police.uk
Alternatively, contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org
Call 999 if criminal activity is ongoing, or during emergencies.
DISC members can also use this platform to provide police information. Those with business connections to rural and wildlife environments may qualify for DISC membership. Email discreports@hampshire.police.uk
