NCATT brings together officers from across the country with expertise in rural crime and equipment theft. Despite being a relatively small team, NCATT has made significant strides in improving co-ordination among police forces, enhancing intelligence sharing, and providing operational support and training. Their work includes investigating thefts of high-value machinery, such as tractors and construction equipment, and collaborating with industry partners to strengthen security measures.

By focusing on prevention, enforcement, and collaboration, NCATT plays a crucial role in safeguarding vital infrastructure and supporting hardworking communities in rural and construction sectors.

The success of NCATT demonstrates how police partnering with the private sector can delivery powerful results and effect real change in the real world.  It also reflects a broader commitment to addressing organized crime and protecting assets that are essential to the UK’s economy and food production.

Funded through donations from construction and agricultural industry stakeholders, the team are strong supporters of initiatives like the CEA's CESAR Scheme, which helps identify and recover stolen equipment through advanced marking and registration systems. NCATT’s efforts have led to increased recovery rates and heightened awareness of rural crime issues.

Created in 2021 and hosted within and supported by Northumbria Police, NCATT was established to address the growing threat of rural and machinery-related crime, which has significant economic and operational impacts on these sectors.

The unit was the brainchild of Superintendent Andy Huddleston from Durham, who has led the Unit until his retirement in October 2025. Mr Huddleston returned as civilian Head of Unit in December 2025.