Collaborative Training Boosts Devon and Cornwall Police’s Fight Against Machinery Theft

VIN CHIP’s Nick Mayell recently spent a day with officers from Devon and Cornwall Police, working alongside both the Roads Policing Unit and specialised officers tackling rural and construction crime. Sharing his 36 years of experience in recovering stolen plant and agricultural machinery, Nick delivered a dynamic mix of classroom and practical sessions aimed at enhancing law enforcement’s ability to identify and recover stolen assets.

The course covered a range of critical topics, including rational selection, preliminary roadside checks, and the use of identification systems such as VIN CHIP ID and CESAR ID. These tools, coupled with Nick’s insights, equip officers with the knowledge to combat thefts more effectively.

Nick remarked, “It is always a pleasure to pass on my years of experience to officers looking to combat the issues of rural and construction crime, particularly given the challenges stemming from global events such as the conflict in Russia and Ukraine. These events have driven a surge in organised thefts within the UK, as equipment shortages and increased demand create lucrative opportunities for criminal networks. This places significant pressure on UK law enforcement to address cross-border trafficking and protect farmers and businesses from these crimes.”

The ongoing conflict in Russia and Ukraine has disrupted global supply chains, increasing the vulnerability of UK farmers and contractors. Equipment shortages and rising prices make high-value assets prime targets for theft, while organised crime groups exploit these conditions to traffic stolen machinery. Sophisticated methods to obscure the origins of assets further complicate recovery efforts. These challenges highlight the urgent need for advanced tools and training to support law enforcement in countering evolving criminal tactics.

A Resounding Success

PC Clarke Orchard, Wildlife Crime Officer and Heritage Crime Liaison Officer at Devon and Cornwall Police, highlighted three key benefits of the session: the clarity of theft indicators provided, the confidence-building practical demonstrations, and the immediate operational impact of the detection device and supportive apps shared during the training.

“I have no doubt the information, theft indicators, and identification practice you shared will be invaluable going forward in our efforts to tackle farm machinery, agri-plant, and construction plant theft.”

PC Orchard also highlighted the practical benefits of the collaboration, noting: “The handheld scanner you loaned to us is being trialled by the operational teams – including the Roads Policing Unit, Road Casualty Reduction Officers, and the South West Commercial Vehicle Unit. They have already deployed it operationally, supported by the CRiS browser and RAPID CESAR app. The teams feel confident in using it to fight rural crime.”

Looking Ahead

This partnership exemplifies the collaborative efforts between VIN CHIP/CRiS and law enforcement to combat theft in rural and construction sectors. With plans to expand the training sessions to a broader audience, the initiative continues to gain momentum.

Police forces interested in scheduling one of these free courses are encouraged to contact Nick Mayell directly at nick.mayell@vinchip.co.uk. Do not miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights and practical tools to combat machinery theft effectively. Spaces are limited, so book today!