Police step up patrols in rural areas of Wealden during coronavirus pandemic

Officers have stopped numerous vehicles as part of an initiative to identify criminals targeting farms, rural dwellings, sheds and garages, Sussex Police said.

Some of the vehicles stopped belonged to farmers checking on their outbuildings, and other members of the community, many of whom have since expressed their appreciation for the proactive steps police are taking, a spokesman said.

Detective Chief Inspector Alasdair Henry, district commander for Wealden, commented: “If criminals think the police have reduced capability to tackle crime because of the current pandemic, they are mistaken.