Rural Crime Week NI 2025, which runs from 8-12 September, will see police and a host of partners embark on a digital-led campaign to support rural communities across Northern Ireland.

The campaign will be led by the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which includes the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Department of Justice (DoJ), and the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU). The partnership works to identify and address issues, highlight crime trends, and prevent crime in rural areas.

PSNI's Rural Crime lead, Superintendent Johnston McDowell, said that while agricultural crime has seen a "marked decrease" in the past year due to the partnership's efforts, other issues remain key priorities. He noted that in addition to the theft of farm machinery and livestock, the week will also focus on topics such as Violence Against Women and Girls, road safety, and firearm security. Justice Minister Naomi Long welcomed the launch, highlighting that incidents of domestic abuse are often higher in rural areas. She said that the annual campaign is an opportunity to raise awareness of the signs of rural crime and to encourage the public to report incidents.

Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir said the week is a vital opportunity to "shine a spotlight on the unique challenges" faced by rural communities, including the theft of animals and machinery, and environmental crimes such as illegal dumping.

To report rural crime of any kind you can call 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. Information about rural crime can also be given to the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/

For more information on rural crime prevention please visit: www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/rural-crime-prevention