Tracker (part of the Tantalum Corporation) helped lead police to the location of a New Holland tractor stolen in Milton Keynes in record time, highlighting the value of its tracking technology in the fight against crime.

Summer sees a rise in rural plant theft, putting many farming businesses under pressure, according to the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS).  

Chris Piggott, rural vehicle crime, field intelligence officer at the NaVCIS, explained: “We’ve recently seen a spike in thefts in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire, with all sorts of equipment being targeted since the beginning of April.

“From quad bikes, up to larger tractors, implements and plant equipment, owners need to be vigilant when it comes to security.

“In this case it was a New Holland tractor, but fortunately, for the owner, it was fitted with a Tracker device, which proved crucial in helping officers locate and return the vehicle within 20 minutes.”

Adrian Davenport, police liaison manager for Tracker, added: “Without having a tracking device fitted, the tractor could have been hidden and sold on or broken down for parts by thieves.

“Thankfully, Tracker’s strong relationship with UK police means we were able to help officers catch the thieves red-handed and return the tractor to the owner.”

Tracker supports the Construction Equipment Security & Registration Scheme (CESAR), which is supported by the Government and major players in the industry. 

Plant owners who mark equipment with the CESAR database registration, and fit a Tracker stolen vehicle recovery unit, can save up to 12.5% discount on their insurance premiums.

“Rural thefts continue to plague farmers and businesses, leaving them without vital machinery, not to mention the financial losses,” continued Davenport.

“It’s clear from the latest NaVCIS reports that criminal gangs aren’t that picky, when it comes to stealing agricultural vehicles and machines.

“From ride-on lawn mowers to high value tractors, we advise businesses with plant machinery to up their game when it comes to security.

“Installing a Tracker device can significantly increase the chances of recovery, stopping thieves in their tracks.”

Tracker can locate stolen plant anywhere, even when they are hidden in a barn, warehouse or shipping container.

Designed specifically for construction and agricultural vehicles and equipment, Tracker Plant works like an electronic homing device.

A covert transmitter is hidden in one of several dozen places around the vehicle. There is no visible aerial, so the thief won’t even know it’s there.

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