RURAL crime detection has fallen by almost 15 percent last year in the Fermanagh and Omagh district areaa, according to the PSNI.
At the end of 2015, the total number of rural crimes, defined as burglary, robbery and theft relating to agricultural-based activity, in the district was 74. By the end of last year, that figure had fallen 14.8 percent to 63. This is in keeping with the overall downward trend recorded by police across the North.
While it has been suggested that it has simply been the number of detections that has fallen, rather than the number of actual crimes, with police struggling to cope with reduced resources, the PSNI have stressed they are continuing to work to tackle the issue. The police have also teamed up with a number of other agencies such as Crimestoppers, the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU), and the Department of Agriculture (DAERA), to form the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP)
The RCP is encouraging the public to report rural crime, and to give information anonymously to Crimestoppers (0800555111). As part of this drive, the RCP will be running an outdoor advertising and social media campaign.
PSNI Superintendent Brian Kee, speaking on behalf of the RCP, said: “I am acutely aware that rural crime has a significant impact on victims, and the economic losses caused by theft of property can have far reaching consequences for individuals, businesses and the economy.
“As a police service, we are also aware of the distinct set of circumstances facing a rural community, that’s why it is important to do whatever we can and to work with our partners to provide the best possible service.”
UFU president Barclay Bell said: “We understand the impact crime against the farming community has on farmers, their families and their businesses. That is why we welcome the launch of this campaign.”
He added the following advice: “Don’t wait for crime to happen. Have a look around your premises, and try to do so with a thief’s eye, looking for vulnerable spots and areas in permanent darkness. This could help make your property less appealing to a thief.”
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Posted: 9:16 pm April 16, 2017