Quad bikes stolen during rural burglaries across Hampshire

Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATV) are attractive to thieves operating in rural areas, and we have had a number of reports of rural burglars stealing these vehicles across the county this summer.

In June and July there have been reports of quadbikes, along with other equipment and tools, being stolen in rural areas and from outbuildings in places such as Dummer, Fareham, Tadley, Whiteley, Broughton and Lymington.

Any incidents being reported to police are being reviewed by our specialist Country Watch Rural Crime Task Force who work with other police teams to develop the wider intelligence picture around offending patterns, who is involved, what areas are being targeted, and to gather any evidence.

In the meantime, we urge owners of quads and ATVs to read the advice below, and to report any suspicious activity around their homes or rural estates to police. Dial 999 if a crime, or something suspicious, is ongoing.

• Keep good records of your quad bikes or ATVs. Take colour photographs from the side, front and behind.

• Photos should include serial/chassis numbers, model numbers and distinguishing features.

• All quads should be security marked with your postcode, followed by letters of your property name or number. Marking your property in this way makes it easier for police to return it to you if it’s recovered following a theft.

• Register your quad at www.immobilise.com

• Park ATVs as close to your premises as possible, ideally in a locked outbuilding with CCTV and security lighting, preferably out of sight from nearby roads.

• Secure them with wheel clamps and/or locking posts, and store in a secure building. Consider using ground anchor plates and chains for extra security.

• Consider investing in a bespoke quad security device (look for those approved by Secured By Design and Sold Secure).

• Fit a GPS tracking device.

• Remove keys when not in use and do not leave them near the quad.

These types of vehicles are sometimes stolen by offenders who then use them to commit crime. 

We’re also keen to hear from people who have seen quad bikes being driven in rural areas in suspicious circumstances, such as in convoy and at night.

If you have information about crime or suspicious activity in your area, please report this to police on 101, or via the report tool at www.hampshire.police.uk

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org

Dial 999 if a crime is in progress, or in the event of an emergency.

If you are a member of DISC you can also use this platform to provide information to the police. If you have a business connection to the rural and wildlife environment, you may be eligible to be a member of DISC. Please email discreports@hampshire.police.uk