Police warning over rise in fuel and machinery theft

A campaign has been launched to raise awareness about rising levels of acquisitive crime in Scotland.

New figures suggest thefts of fuel and machinery was 12% higher in 2023 than the average over the previous five years.

Police said there was a noticeable peak in construction materials being stolen over the festive period when sites were closed.

The Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA) and Police Scotland have launched the campaign urging rural businesses to take security measures.