Rural crime campaign underway in the area

Police are undertaking a campaign targeting wildlife and rural crime in the area this week.

Dyfed Powys Police officers will be undertaking cross-border activity with neighbouring forces as part of the week-long campaign.

They will focus on issues including quad bike thefts and off-roading, to sheep worrying and livestock movement. The teams will also visit farmers’ markets to speak with people from rural communities, giving them a chance to raise any concerns.

Superintendent Robyn Mason, Dyfed-Powys Police’s lead on rural crime, said: “While rural crime is firmly on our agenda as a predominantly rural force, this week of action gives us the chance to take a coordinated and strategic approach to issues with colleagues across the country.

“As well as linking with other forces, our rural crime officers will be working with teams from animal health and welfare agencies, Natural Resources Wales, and other departments within the police to tackle issues, raise awareness and further build on relationships with our rural communities.”

The official launch of the no cold calling zones on farms in Carmarthenshire will also take place in partnership with Trading Standards during the week.

The initiative has been trialled across the county following a spate of thefts and unwanted cold callers, and gives farmers the tools and confidence to report suspicious activity.

Supt Mason said: “There is a risk that cold callers have sinister motives, and could be checking the area for unsecured vehicles or machinery.

“By having the no cold calling zone in place, farmers and farm workers can have the confidence to ask any unwanted callers to leave, and will also have instructions on how to report suspicious activity.”

Dyfed-Powys Police has made significant investments in the rural crime teams since they were established in November 2017, with specialist equipment and vehicles ensuring remote communities can be supported fully.