Published: 03 Jun 2026
The theft of geospatial surveying equipment continues to be one of the most significant challenges facing our members. We understand the real impact this has on your businesses, not just financially, but operationally and personally too. When essential equipment is stolen, projects are delayed, teams are disrupted, and stress levels rise.
At TSA, we remain firmly committed to supporting our members and leading efforts to address this issue. Over the past decade, we have played a central role in driving the national response to survey equipment theft, and we are pleased to share positive progress, while recognising there is still a way to go.
Strengthening the national response
Building on almost a decade of evidence gathering with SmartWater/DeterTech, in 2025 TSA started to directly support the work of the National Construction and Agriculture Theft Team (NCATT), a specialist operational police unit established in 2023.
NCATT is unique as the UK’s only fully industry-funded specialist police unit dedicated to tackling Organised Criminal Groups (OCGs) involved in the theft of construction and agricultural equipment. Bringing together officers from across the country with expertise in rural crime and equipment theft, the team is small but highly effective.
In a relatively short time, NCATT has:
- Improved coordination between police forces nationwide
- Enhanced intelligence sharing across regions and sectors
- Delivered operational support and training
- Conducted investigations into high-value machinery theft
- Built strong partnerships with industry and European law enforcement
Importantly, NCATT has been working directly with TSA members, not only supporting individual cases of theft but also helping to unite resources across the UK to actively pursue organised crime gangs.
Real progress with a persistent challenge
There is encouraging news. NCATT and local police teams have achieved record-breaking seizures of stolen equipment, alongside arrests and significant cash recoveries across the UK. These outcomes demonstrate that coordinated, intelligence-led policing is making a real difference.
However, the national and international illicit demand for machinery remains high and continues to drive organised criminal activity, meaning that while enforcement efforts are delivering results, the risk of thefts remains.
A collaborative approach
The work of NCATT highlights the importance of a three-pronged approach:
- Prevention: strengthening security and awareness
- Enforcement: targeting and disrupting organised crime
- Collaboration: sharing intelligence and working together
By focusing on these areas, NCATT plays a critical role in safeguarding our sector, protecting vital infrastructure, and supporting the hardworking businesses that keep projects moving across the UK.
What to do if theft occurs
If you experience theft, acting quickly and following the correct process is essential to maximise the chances of recovery:
1. Report the theft immediately
Report the theft to the police force where the incident occurred. This is critical as only the relevant force can formally investigate and circulate the equipment as stolen on police systems. If your equipment has live tracking and you are not receiving a timely response, contact NCATT immediately.
2. Notify key partners
Email the equipment manufacturer and NCATT via ncatt@northumbria.police.uk to ensure NCATT is aware and can assist and the manufacturer can flag the equipment on their systems. For Leica Geosystems equipment, also notify uk.support@leica-geosystems.com
3. Provide full details
Use the subject line: “Survey Theft Notification” and include:
- Make and model
- Serial number
- Approximate value
- Date of theft
- Location of theft
- Police crime reference number
Please note that online reporting reference numbers cannot be acted upon until a formal crime number is issued by the police.
Moving forward together
While the challenge of survey equipment theft is far from over, the progress being made through collaboration with NCATT is significant and encouraging. By continuing to work together we are building a stronger, more resilient response.
