Commenting on this week’s Rural Crime Report, unveiled by the UK’s leading insurer, NFU Mutual, Ms Lockhart said: “The latest figures are alarming. As a whole the UK figures for 2025 show a 6% downturn totalling £41.5m; but on a regional basis rural crime in Northern Ireland equated to £2.2m, representing a 24% increase in the last twelve months.

“This is a clear sign that criminals are increasingly active across our countryside.

“Rural crime is a daily occurrence across the province and sadly, society isn’t solely dealing with opportunistic or petty thieves. In many cases the heightening crime rates are attributed to organised crime gangs who are ‘stealing to order’ to supply illicit global markets.”

The MP continued: “The theft of quad bikes, all-terrain and farm vehicles, trailers, tractors and machinery, farm livestock, GPS systems and fuel continues to cause major concern; while illegal dumping, fly-tipping and dog attacks on livestock are a menacing blight on our countryside.

“Rural crime is not victimless. Behind every incident is a farming family or business already operating under significant financial pressure.

“The impact of theft, vandalism and sometimes arson, extends far beyond significant inconvenience and financial loss. It creates fear, anxiety and uncertainty for those living and working in isolated and rural communities.

“Many victims are left feeling vulnerable, and there is strong feeling that rural criminality falls well down the list of policing priorities, so much so that numerous crimes go unreported.”

The Upper Bann MP added: “Farmers and rural residents must have confidence that crimes reported to the PSNI will be treated seriously and investigated robustly. Handing out a crime number for insurance purposes isn’t acceptable.

“I realise the police service needs more resources to strengthen its response to rural crime, and ensure there is a more visible and proactive police presence in rural communities. The Rural Crime Partnership’s co-ordinated approach involving the PSNI, the Justice Department and DAERA, supported by industry stakeholders is essential when it comes to raising awareness and tackling criminality.”

“There are a number of practical and preventative measures available to help farmers protect their assets, including CCTV, security lighting, tracking technology, trailer marking and livestock freeze branding,” explained the MP.

“These measures have been proven to deter criminals, with trackers and trailer marking helping to improve recovery rates. I would also encourage participation in a Farm Watch or Neighbourhood Watch scheme. But more importantly, we all have a collective responsibility to report suspicious activity to the PSNI or Crimestoppers.



“Our farming and rural communities are the backbone of Northern Ireland. They deserve protection and support, a fit for purpose justice system, and a police service equipped with the necessary manpower and resources to stamp out rural crime.”