Rural crime in Wales

We're working to help raise the profile of rural crime in Wales. We want people to know what it is, why it’s a problem and what you can do to help stop it.

Rural thieves have evolved beyond opportunistic local individuals. Increasingly in recent years, organised and sometimes international criminal gangs are in control of criminal activities, with global events and emerging illicit markets further fuelling the demand for stolen equipment.

The issue of rural crime takes a toll on both the lives and livelihoods of farming families, with many feeling vulnerable knowing that their homes and workplaces are under surveillance by criminals.

Rural crime impacts rural residents emotionally, and it hits their pockets too - according to NFU Mutual's 2023 Rural Crime Report, rural crime in the UK rose by 22.1% last year and cost an estimated £49.5m.

Rural communities are often aware of criminal activity that is happening - we’re here to help anyone with information speak up, 100% anonymously. Your voice really can make a difference.

Speak up to stop rural crime. If you have information and want to remain anonymous, you can contact us on the phone by calling 0800 555 111, or get in touch online:

give information anonymously

Waste crime is a substantial problem on its own, causing extensive and severe damage to people, communities, the economy and the environment. It's toxic, and poses a menacing threat to communities, due to the organised crime gangs who are willing to spoil the spaces in which people live. It erodes investments, economic growth, and jobs within the legitimate waste sector.

This criminal activity has a staggering cost to the UK’s economy of almost one billion pounds annually.

Learn more about what comes under the heading or environmental crime on our environmental crime Keeping Safe page:

find out more

Everyone has a part to play in stopping rural crime - and you could be the missing link.

July 7 2024