Datatag ID, delivery partner to the official CESAR Scheme, joined industry leaders, government representatives, and police forces at this year’s CITS Conference, held on Thursday 6 November 2025 at JCB World Headquarters.
Hosted by Ian Elliott, CITS Chairman and Dave Luscombe, the event highlighted the vital work being done across industry and policing to combat theft, fraud, and organised crime affecting the construction and agricultural sectors.
The Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch, Leader of His Majesty’s Official Opposition, and The Rt Hon Matt Vickers MP, Shadow Policing Minister, attended the conference, where the Conservative Party used the platform to launch its Rural Crime Strategy.
CITS Chairman Ian Elliott opened the event, followed by a keynote address from Deputy Chief Constable Nigel Harrison, NPCC lead for Rural Crime, who outlined the significant economic impact of organised criminal networks targeting the construction and agricultural industries. His message reinforced the need for closer cooperation between law enforcement, manufacturers, and industry bodies to protect UK businesses and critical infrastructure.
Throughout the day, panel discussions covered issues ranging from physical and cyber threats to critical infrastructure, to sophisticated hire fraud, the growing problem of tool theft, and the successes achieved by the National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team (NCATT) in tackling organised machinery theft.
Datatag also exhibited at the event, showcasing its new tool marking system — an extension of the company’s proven identification technology designed to help protect tradespeople from the escalating threat of tool theft.
The day concluded with the CITS CESAR Awards, celebrating police officers and industry professionals who have shown exceptional dedication in tackling machinery and equipment crime.Award winners included:
- Outstanding Investigation – PC Sam Smith, Essex Police
- Dedication to Fighting ACE Crime – PC Andrew Katowski, West Yorkshire Police
- Outstanding Officer – PC Alex Tacon, Norfolk Police
- Best Team – Kent Police Rural Crime Team and Thames Valley Police Rural Crime Team
- Outstanding Contribution to Tackling ACE Crime (Non-Police) – Vince Lane (RAPID) and Clair Frame (Tool Marking)
Kevin Howells, Managing Director of Datatag ID, said:
“The CITS Conference continues to be a key event for everyone involved in combating machinery and equipment theft. It brings together police forces, manufacturers, and trade bodies who all share a common goal — making theft harder and recovery easier. We were proud to showcase our latest tool marking technology and to see so many committed officers and partners recognised at the CESAR Awards. The launch of the Conservatives’ new Rural Crime Strategy by Kemi Badenoch added another important dimension to the day, reinforcing the value of collaboration between industry and government.”
Diamond sponsor: Datatag ID
Datatag ID Limited 