04.04.2025

Facebook reveals stolen telehandler

A 12.5 metre JCB telehandler, that was stolen in the UK in February 2024, has been recovered in Cornwall following its listing on Facebook Marketplace. The machine, said to have been valued at £25,000, was identified through The Equipment Register (TER).

An equipment dealer spotted the machine for sale online and verified its status through TER's database. The organisation immediately contacted Devon and Cornwall Police giving the machine's location in Hayle, leading to its recovery.

The case highlights growing concerns about stolen equipment being sold through social media platforms. For example TER's research shows that more than 10 percent of horse boxes listed on online marketplaces were either stolen or had tampered identification plates.

TER data director Treve Jenkyn said: "This case serves as a good example of how critical it is for buyers to verify the legitimacy of machinery before purchasing. Thanks to the diligence of the dealer and our collaboration with Devon and Cornwall Police, this stolen telescopic handler was successfully recovered for the owner.”

Watch this video to see TER in action:


Vertikal Comment:

This story, combined with one we published last week about Haulotte UK and Nationwide Platforms falling victim to fraud, highlights an alarming trend in the industry in several countries that demonstrates the increasing sophistication of criminals targeting equipment suppliers and rental companies, whether through direct theft or elaborate fraud schemes.

While the TER provides an excellent service in the UK - as demonstrated by this recent recovery - it's clear that more needs to be done. The use of online marketplaces and sophisticated documentation by criminals shows how methods are evolving.

Companies should exercise caution and extra diligence when receiving unusual enquiries or dealing with new customers. Please contact us at [email protected] if you receive suspicious enquiries, phone calls, or documentation. We are working with others to establish a more comprehensive alert system and will continue to share information to help prevent such incidents.