CEA-funded police training has helped officers identify stolen surveying equipment during a search linked to a burglary investigation.
The case came to light following a message of thanks from PC Will Durant, who contacted those involved in the training to explain how officers had put what they had learned into practice.
Officers had recently attended a CITS (Combined Industries Theft Solutions) police training event in Sussex, supported by the CEA (Construction Equipment Association). CITS is an industry-led group that brings together businesses, police and security specialists to tackle theft in sectors where high-value equipment is targeted by criminals.
The police training events are designed to give officers knowledge of plant, agricultural machinery, surveying equipment, trailers, attachments and tools, so they can recognise suspicious equipment, understand its value, and know how to check it properly.
Soon after the event, officers were involved in an investigation linked to a suspected organised crime group and a burglary in Kent. During a subsequent search, they found surveying equipment. Because of the training, they recognised it could be significant and raised it with colleagues for further checks.
It was later confirmed that the equipment had been stolen in July last year and its value estimated at around £30,000 to £40,000.
Ian Elliott, head of security at Clancy Group, said the case is exactly the kind of result industry and police partners want to see. “This is why CITS training matters,” he said. “It gives officers practical information they can use when they are out on the ground. In this case, the officers knew the surveying equipment was worth a proper look, and that knowledge made the difference.
“We talk a lot about partnership between industry and the police, but this is what it looks like in real terms. The training was delivered, the officers remembered it, and equipment that could easily have been missed was identified.”
Vincent Lane, a DATATAG ID’s police liaison & training officer, added, “This is fantastic news and a clear example of CITS training being put to good use. These events give officers practical knowledge they can apply during live investigations, and this result shows exactly why they matter.”
Dave Luscombe, CESAR scheme liaison at the CEA, stated, “CESAR is about much more than marking and registration. It helps us fund this valuable training and creates the complete route from industry support and police training through to operational delivery.
“The CEA’s support for CITS training helps give officers the confidence to recognise plant, machinery and associated equipment, understand its value, and know what to do next. That is what gives the scheme strength in practice.”
Viki Bell, CEO of the CEA, said the case demonstrated why continued investment in police engagement is so important.
“This is a clear example of CEA-funded training making a difference during a live investigation,” she explained. “CITS training gives police officers the practical knowledge to recognise when something needs checking. The officers involved were able to apply what they had learned, and that is exactly why this work matters.
“The CEA is proud to support this work because it helps officers on the ground, supports owners and hire companies, and strengthens the wider response to plant and equipment crime.”
