Tractors and other agricultural machines are now often equipped with advanced technology. GPS and computer screens measure exactly how and where the farmers should go in the field. The technology makes work more efficient, but is also desirable goods for thieves. In May, two men who are now in custody were arrested on suspicion of a series of thefts from farms.
Michael Werner is one of the farmers who were subjected to theft during the spring. It is the second time he has lost GPS equipment.
– Lately, if we have lunch and put the tractor on the fence for an hour, we take the stuff with us. You don’t dare leave it standing any longer, because they need so little time to get to the stuff. So now we have to take on the extra work, he says.
International theft leagues
This type of theft from farms is becoming a growing problem. Between 2019 and 2022, the number of thefts doubled from around 40 to 80 per year. In 2023, thefts increased sharply with 229 reported thefts, almost three times as many as the year before.
And the trend looks set to continue in 2024. So far this year, more than 100 thefts have been reported. The police believe that international theft gangs are behind it.
– Such an increase as seen in recent years indicates that the networks that work with the thefts are very well-functioning. Even though we prosecute thieves, the crimes continue and this indicates that there are many who can do this job, says Karin Rinander, head of preliminary investigations at the police.
The prompt: document your equipment
The police recommend farmers to sound the alarm and lock their equipment, but also to carefully document what equipment they have. In this way, it will be easier to link up if the thieves are caught.
Michael Werner lost over half a million kroner worth of equipment in the two thefts and it was not all covered by his insurance. In addition, work on the farm was stopped until new equipment was in place.
– You lose your appetite. I have a son who is about to take over and join the company now and he lost his appetite. He thought that now this must be over, because it is hard, says Michael Werner.