Police Appeal for Information on Rural Dorset Properties Targeted in Equipment Thefts

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Police are appealing for public assistance following two separate thefts at rural properties in west Dorset, where thieves made off with farming and workshop equipment. The incidents occurred in Broadoak and Thorncombe, and officers are urging locals to come forward with any information that could help identify those responsible.

The first reported theft took place in Broadoak, although the exact date remains unclear. Officers believe the crime could have happened between May 1 and July 16. During that period, a grass topper was stolen from an open barn on a rural property. Police are treating the theft seriously and are encouraging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area to report it.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: “At some time between May 1 and July 16, a grass topper was stolen from an open barn. If anyone has any information about this crime, please contact us and use reference number 55250104207.”

The second incident occurred in the Thorncombe area and was reported to have taken place overnight between 11 and 12 July. In this case, two workshops on a property were broken into. According to police, power tools were taken from one of the workshops, while the second workshop was damaged, but nothing appeared to have been stolen.

The police spokesperson added: “Between July 11-12, two workshops were broken into, with power tools stolen from one and nothing appearing to have been stolen from the other. If anyone has any information on these crimes, or has any CCTV/doorbell footage that may assist with enquiries, please contact us and use reference numbers 5525010717 and 55250103510.”

In the meantime, Dorset Police are urging residents and landowners to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. They have also reminded the public of the importance of securing equipment and tools, especially in isolated or rural areas, which opportunistic thieves can often target.

The force recommends using security cameras, motion sensors, and secure locking systems on barns and workshops. While these incidents are still under investigation, police are particularly keen to hear from anyone with video footage, whether from CCTV (closed-circuit television) or home doorbell systems, that may have captured unusual activity around the dates in question.

Residents who may have seen unknown vehicles, unfamiliar individuals, or anything that seemed out of place are being asked to share what they know, no matter how minor the detail may seem.

Reports can be made by calling 101 or visiting the Dorset Police website at www.dorset.police.uk. In the event of a crime in progress, members of the public should always call 999.