Close the gate on rural thefts

The Team from Manawatu, Taranaki, Whanganui-Ruapehu Police

Police are urging rural property owners to be vigilant and ensure their property is secure including farm gates.

A key focus for Police is preventing crime from happening in the first place. We would like to remind rural property owners to make security a priority.

A lot of reported thefts are committed by opportunistic criminals looking for an insecure shed, or a farm vehicle with keys left in the ignition or an open gate. It's important to ensure your property, including fuel tanks, are secure and locked to restrict theft and tampering.

There are a range of measures you can take to ensure your property is safe and less appealing to burglars:
- Secure your home, garage, farm buildings, fuel tanks and vehicles at night and when unattended.
- Record the serial numbers or engrave tools, electronic and valuable items with your licence number.
- Install an alarm system and get sensor lights fitted as a deterrent.
- Always lock your property and auxiliary buildings when you leave, even if it's only for a short time.
- Always lock your vehicles when you leave them and take your keys with you.
- Use chains and locks to secure openings and access.
- Keep in contact with your neighbours and let one another know if you see anything unusual.

We take burglary and theft incidents seriously, if you see anything suspicious contact Police immediately on 105 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Further burglary prevention advice is available on the Police website.