Rural Crime Costs Rise 18% in Wales Amid UK Decline

Rural crime in Wales surged by 18% in 2024, costing an estimated £2.8 million, making Wales the only UK nation to experience an increase while the rest of the UK saw declines in rural crime costs. Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles remain prime targets, with thefts causing significant disruption to farming operations, especially during busy seasons. Livestock thefts, often involving highly organised raids stealing 50 or more sheep, continue to impact farming businesses and cause distress to farmers and their families. Despite police efforts to improve rural crime teams and introduce preventative measures, the vast and isolated nature of rural Wales makes tackling these crimes challenging. NFU Mutual regional manager Owen Suckley highlighted the growing organisation and persistence of rural crime, emphasizing the mental toll on farming communities. While rural crime costs decreased by 16.5% across the UK overall, calls have been made for greater government support and investment in policing to better protect rural businesses and communities in Wales.