Thieves with a penchant for heavy machinery are being targeted in a new crime prevention operation by Kent Police.

Officers are working with the construction, farming, insurance, security and transport industries, and the public, in an effort to drive down the number of specialist gangs stealing valuable equipment from building sites, farms and lay-bys.

A single piece of heavy machinery - such as excavators, forklift trucks, grass cutters, tractors, generators, cement mixers and road breakers - can cost as much as £300,000, and thefts are increasing nationally as gangs target what they see as a lucrative source of cash.

It is also believed that stolen machinery is being shipped to Europe where equipment is in short supply.

Inspector Roscoe Walford said: “Roadworks last longer when machinery is stolen causing traffic delays and diversions. This affects people taking their children to school, shoppers, commuters and people generally going about their daily lives.

“People find it harder to get builders and other tradesmen to do work for them because insurance companies demand high premiums or won't insure because of the increasing number of claims they make.

“If businesses cannot get insurance, people can lose their jobs.”

Kent Police will be advising building sites and farms to mark machinery with U/V pens and make it distinctive with paint and lots of livery stickers, and use security devices such as datatag or satellite tracker technology.

Officers will also have additional police checks at the Channel Tunnel.

Inspector Walford added: “If you belong to a gang that steals heavy machinery we are watching you and will do everything possible to bring you before the courts.”

Heavy machinery owners, contractors and hirers can obtain advice about security measures by contacting Julie Argent, Crime Reduction Project Manager on 01622 653205 or their local police station and ask to speak to their Crime Reduction Officer.

Crimes can be reported to Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.