Tree specialists Oakwick Utility Arborists, based in Lincolnshire, and sister company, P&P Tree Services, have suffered the theft of equipment valuing nearly £500,000. The loot, comprising chainsaws and wood chippers, was swiped in an aggressive burglary that has subsequently posed immense operational issues for the businesses. Even after an investment of £7,000 on new security barriers, the firms find themselves ill-equipped in defending against this structured and elaborate form of theft.
The firms’ business development manager, Luke Chaisty, highlighted the enormous impact this has had on their operations. According to him, the scenario has been both “frustrating and devastating.” With the equipment stolen, the businesses are now contingent on rented equipment, which has added hundreds of pounds a day to cost overheads. With resources limited, they are trying hard to keep their operations afloat.
Chaisty also implied significant concern over the rising trend of rural crime and the inherent challenges in impeding such happenings. “No matter what security measures you put in place, determined thieves find a way,” he noted, emphasising the systematic nature of these felonious activities. Lincolnshire Police have fortunately been able to retrieve some of the stolen apparatus, however, investigations are underway to trace the remaining equipment.
In light of this incident, Lincolnshire Police have put forth some recommendations to local businesses. It includes marking their property to make identification easier in case of theft and to also impede potential sales by thieves. They also urge companies to secure their tools and register their property on the crime prevention websites like Immobilise.
The Lincoln Post adapted this story from an original report by www.bbc.com.
