An operation led by Kent Police鈥檚 Rural Task Force with Port of Dover Police, the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service and the National 萝莉原创 & Agricultural Theft Team has resulted in the recovery of construction and agricultural machinery worth around 拢200,000.
Officers seized the goods in Dover and made three arrests over a two-day period.
On Thursday 26th February 2026, drivers were detained after suspicion was aroused that the machinery with which they were attempting to leave the country was stolen.
A woodchipper was recovered, along with an excavator and trailer, diagnostic equipment and a tool to change VIN numbers.
Two men, aged 43 and 44, were arrested in connection with handling stolen goods and going equipped. They have since been bailed pending further enquiries.
The following day, a lorry was stopped after it was suspected that the Volvo G930 grader it was towing had been stolen. The value of the grader was estimated at around 拢150,000. A suspected stolen John Deere baler was also seized.
Enquiries were completed at the scene and a 31-year-old man was arrested in relation to handling stolen goods, along with two driving offences. He has been bailed while enquiries continue.
Police Sergeant Ross Haybourne said: 鈥淭hese positive outcomes show what can be achieved when police officers and specialist partners work closely together. Through working collaboratively, we were able to recover valuable agricultural and construction machinery, disrupt organised criminal activity and safeguard farmers, businesses and livelihoods.鈥�
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