Kent Police Officers Trained to Tackle Machinery Theft with VIN Chip IMI Course

Ten Kent Police officers have successfully completed VIN Chip’s IMI-accredited Plant and Agricultural Machinery Theft Awareness and Identification Course, delivered by renowned Interpol trainer and machinery identification expert, Nick Mayell.

Held in Kent, the course is part of VIN Chip’s ongoing work to support UK police forces in the fight against agricultural and plant machinery theft, a rising issue costing the UK rural economy millions each year. The training is recognised by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and equips officers with the tools and techniques needed to identify stolen machinery in the field.

The two-day intensive programme covers a wide range of specialist topics, including:

·       Roadside profiling and examination

·       Spotting fake or tampered VIN/chassis numbers

·       Recognising cloned or false number plates

·       Use of open and closed-source intelligence databases

·       Health and safety considerations

·       Understanding VIN Chip and CESAR systems

Nick Mayell, who has over 35 years’ experience recovering stolen machinery globally, praised the officers’ commitment: “It has been a privilege, as always, to work with such an enthusiastic group of police officers. I am convinced that moving forward they now have a skill set on which they are able to progress and make recoveries.”

Sergeant Ross Haybourne of Kent Police added: “This training is essential for frontline officers. The practical knowledge gained from VIN Chip’s course will have a real impact on our ability to detect, deter, and recover stolen plant and agricultural machinery in our region.”

VIN Chip has trained hundreds of officers across the UK and continues to work closely with rural crime units, specialist operations teams, and serious organised crime taskforces.

👉 The next Plant and Agricultural Machinery IMI Course will take place on 16–17 September 2025, followed by the Forensic VIN Recovery Course on 18 September 2025.

📍 Find out more or book your place here: VIN Chip Police Training Courses