Rural Crime on the Rise in Scotland Despite Initial Pandemic Drop

Strategic Insights -

As the economic impact of the pandemic takes hold, rural crime in Scotland is poised to escalate significantly, warns NFU Mutual. Despite an initial drop in reported incidents during the early stages of the pandemic, data shows that high value tractors, quad bikes, and tools remain the most prized targets of criminal gangs operating in the countryside. The pandemic also led to a surge in fly-tipping, with rubbish dumping reaching epidemic proportions, posing risks to farmers' health, livestock, and the environment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rural crime in Scotland saw a spike in 2020, with high value tractors, quad bikes, and tools being the most targeted items, at a cost of £1.7 million over the year.
  • Fly-tipping increased significantly during the pandemic, with waste recycling centres restricting access, leaving farmers to deal with the clean-up and health risks.
  • The rise in pet ownership and countryside visits led to an increase in attacks on farm animals, which continued throughout the first half of 2021.
  • The pandemic restrictions had a positive impact on rural crime initially, but as restrictions eased, so did the decline in crime rates.
  • The rural community is fighting back against crime, with regional Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC) initiatives providing farmers with information and tips on how to combat crime.
  • NFU Mutual is investing over £64,000 in the fight against rural crime in Scotland through SPARC.

Statistics:

  • £1.7 million: The cost of high value tractors, quad bikes, and tools targeted by criminal gangs in Scotland over the year.
  • 2020: The year that saw a spike in rural crime in Scotland, including fly-tipping and attacks on farm animals.
  • 50%: The estimated increase in attacks on farm animals throughout the first half of 2021.
  • £64,000: The amount NFU Mutual is investing in the fight against rural crime in Scotland through SPARC.
  • 2021: The year that saw a continued rise in rural crime, despite initial pandemic-related decline.

Sources:

  • NFU Mutual Regional Manager in Scotland, Mark McBrearty
  • Inspector Alan Dron, National Rural Crime Coordinator at Police Scotland
  • NFU Scotland Vice-President, Robin Traquair
  • Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC)