The DUP’s Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson said: ”The NFU Mutual launched its 2025 Rural Crime Report this week in Westminster, and despite a 9% fall in twelve months, the cost of rural crime in Northern Ireland during 2024 is estimated at £1.8m. Across the UK the total cost equated to £44.1m, which compares favourably to £52.8m in 2023.

“Whilst I welcome these figures, I would like to see them much lower. It is very concerning that there is an element within our community who prey on farmers and those living in rural areas.

“Farming is tough enough, with many working long hours for minimal financial gain. Rural crime has a huge economic impact on a farm business. All too often, farmers are left feeling violated and suffering from mental anguish at the hand of thieves.”

The MP added:” Statistics show that crime is an almost daily occurrence for farms and rural businesses throughout Northern Ireland. Quad bikes, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), trailers, pick-ups, tractors, mini diggers, GPS systems, tools, livestock and fuel remain hugely sought-after by thieves.

Farmers are also left counting the cost of dog attacks on livestock, fly-tipping and illegal dumping, on a regular basis.

“We regularly see farmers posting on social media and appealing for information following the theft of vehicles, livestock and equipment. Unfortunately, we are no longer dealing with opportunistic thieves.

“Organised crime gangs are active within our rural communities, scouting the area and ‘stealing to order’, to supply illicit global markets with high-value machinery and technology.”

NFU figures show that progress has been made in combatting rural crime. Ms Lockhart continued: “Farmers are taking steps to protect their property, such as installing cctv cameras, alarms, security lights and padlocks. Fitting vehicle trackers, freeze branding livestock and availing of free trailer marking can also help to deter criminals.

“In recent years we have also seen a co-ordinated collaboration between the PSNI, Rural Crime Partnership and other industry stakeholders.

“However, more could be done. I have spoken to farmers who feel vulnerable and reluctant to report thefts and burglaries because they are scared of reprisal. It’s unacceptable that farming families are living in fear of being targeted.

“Many feel that criminality in rural areas falls down the PSNI’s list of priorities. I realise that budgets are tight and resources are stretched, but there is a need for regular and more visible police patrols in the countryside.”

She added: “There has been a significant increase in the theft of valuable farm livestock, particularly cattle and sheep, over the last five years. Livestock prices have risen substantially, making animals a more attractive prospect for crime gangs and cross-border rustlers.”



The NFU estimates that livestock thefts across the UK equated to £3.4m in 2024.