North Yorkshire Police are targeting a group of thieves responsible for stealing flatbed trailers, horseboxes and horse-riding equipment.

There has been a recent spike in reported thefts from rural parts of York, Ryedale and Hambleton as well as villages over the border in East Yorkshire.

Inspector Mark Earnshaw of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force has issued a warning.

The Northern Echo: North Yorkshire Police report a spate of thefts in rural communities

He said: “I advise people who live or work in rural communities to take immediate action to further protect their assets and property.”

Police have increased patrols in rural areas and are now asking people who live and work in the countryside to report any suspicion on 999.

The Rural Task Force are a team responsible for dealing with crime in the countryside. Officers are working closely with colleagues in neighbouring Humberside Police to identify those who are responsible for the thefts and bring them to justice.

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Inspector Earnshaw added: “The impact of crime to the rural community cannot be underestimated, whether it be the emotional cost from being a victim, to the financial cost of replacing the high-value equipment.”

North Yorkshire Police is reminding owners of flatbed trailers, horseboxes and trailers used for moving livestock to review their security immediately.

If you have any information which can help the investigation, call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote reference number 12230209632.