Police are urging motorbike owners to make sure their vehicles are safe and secure after a series of motorbike thefts in Gloucester.
Five motorbikes were stolen in the Hardwick area between the hours of 2am and 4am on Wednesday morning (4 November).
Officers located four of the stolen motorbikes just before 3am in Hardwicke and with support from the Dog unit, they conducted a search of the area for the suspects, however they were not located.
A further motorbike was recovered at around 3.50am in Holmleigh Park in Tuffley after three suspects were seen running across the park.
Again, officers conducted a search of the area for the suspects but they were not located.
All of the vehicles were subsequently reunited with their owners.
Enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible and investigating officers are asking residents in Hardwicke and Tuffley to check CCTV and doorbell footage which may show a group of between three and five males acting suspiciously between the hours of 2am and 4am on Wednesday morning.
Anyone with any information can report it to police via the following online form quoting occurrence 53260095136: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
Vehicle crime is often opportunistic, and we want to ensure that residents are aware of the crime prevention methods that can be considered to help deter thieves. You can help protect your vehicle from theft by following these measures:
- Using a steering lock and removing the ignition keys, even if you are close by or away for a few minutes.
- Parking your motorbike or e-bike in an area where it’s well overlooked and with good lighting.
- Security marking as much of your bike as possible will make it more difficult for criminals to sell parts on, and therefore less attractive to steal. It will also help to return any recovered motorbikes.
- Securing your bike, with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture. This will stop thieves from cutting the lock. If this isn’t possible, thread the chain through your bike frame and back wheel.
- Using a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls. You could also use a D lock on the front wheel to stop it being wheeled away.
- Thieves often ‘shop’ for particular bike models so we recommend covering your motorbike. A cover also provides a time-consuming obstacle for the thief.
- Fitting an alarm system with tracking, immobilisation, anti-grab and movement sensors can help protect and trace your vehicle. A quality Thatcham approved, professionally fitted alarm system will not only put off thieves, but could also reduce your insurance premiums.