Vital

Following a presentation and meetings with Network Rail senior management within the Kent area, Vital Rail Security have secured a three month pilot programme to protect part of the VIR Route (Faversham to Ramsgate) from the theft of live and redundant cable. Working in partnership with Network Rail management and British Transport Police specialist cable theft teams, VRS will be patrolling this route.  The primary objective is to ensure that any redundant cable is not removed by thieves prior to it being officially removed and disposed of by Network Rail but also to provide a security presence to deter the theft of or damage to any live cable. 

**UPDATE** On the evening of 20th June 2012 – only 3 days into the 3 month pilot – VRS teams have foiled a large cable theft attempt. 

Teams were alerted to a remote alarm at a substation in Reculver, Kent and were on site in less than 4 minutes.  Thieves were still on the scene and VRS teams were able to disrupt the theft and notify Police.  Police attended immediately and gave chase with dogs but sadly lost the scent following a pursuit across farmland.  However in the course of the thieves being disturbed by VRS they left all of their kit and it is hopeful that forensic examination will provide enough evidence to arrest and hopefully charge the thieves.

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