Wales farm crime survey finds over a fifth of farms victimised

A survey of more than 150 Welsh farmers conducted by Aberystwyth University academics Dr Wyn Morris and Dr Gareth Norris found that 22% of farms experienced crime in the past year. Theft was the most common offence, with machinery theft alone accounting for 65% of the incidents reported by agricultural businesses, followed by livestock and equipment theft.

The report, produced as part of the Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales project, highlighted concerns about limited policing resources and support services in rural areas, but 78% of victims said they were satisfied with the police response. The findings will be presented at a launch event on 3 August at the National Eisteddfod, hosted at the Dyfed‑Powys Police stand, where Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn emphasised the need for continued collaboration to support rural communities.