Police launch crackdown on plant machinery thefts in Three Rivers

Most frequently stolen are items are excavators, which account for more than 20 per cent of thefts of this kind, and forklifts, of which 16 have been taken.

Other items taken include generators, loaders, rollers, concrete mixers, pumps, chippers, tippers, bulldozers, tractors, trailers and quad bikes.

In response, Hertfordshire Constabulary says it is working with the Plant and Agricultural National Intelligence Unit and neighbouring police forces to help drive numbers down.

More high visibility patrols are also stopping and checking plant machinery being transported on roads, to ensure it is not stolen.

Neighbourhood Inspector George Holland said: "Plant theft is a serious issue in Three Rivers and the impact on owners of stolen items is enormous.

"From April 2008 to March 2009 across the country, an average of 16 items was being taken a day, which equates to a value of £57 million and the average value of an item taken is £10,000."

"Much of the stolen plant is taken from farms and other business located in rural areas. As Three Rivers is largely rural and with good links to London, this may be why it has been targeted.

"We are appealing to anyone who lives or works in the Three Rivers areas to help us by being extra vigilant of any suspicious activity in areas where plant machinery is kept."

A 25-year-old man Watford has been arrested on suspicion of theft of plant and has been released on police bail while police enquiries continue.

Anyone who can help solve these crimes should call 999 if the incident is in progress, or 0845 3300222.