Police are reminding residents and visitors to the Isle of Wight of vital crime prevention advice following the theft of a number of bicycles in recent weeks.
Between 23rd June and 10th July, a total of 7 reports have been received at different campsite locations across the Island. In many cases the bikes have been left locked and thieves have cut the locks.
The bicycles stolen have been of high value and a vehicle may have been used by thieves to transport the bikes.
Hampshire Constabulary say enquiries are ongoing.
Anyone with any information relating to these incidents should contact Police on 101. Information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crime prevention advice:
• Register it
Get your bike security marked and registered at https://www.bikeregister.com/. It’s a highly effective, visible deterrent to bike thieves. They know that if they are caught with a registered bike, the owner can be traced and they will be arrested. https://www.immobilise.com/ is another free site where you can register your bike’s details.
• Record it
Remember to record details of your bike such as the frame number (normally found underneath the bike between the pedals or where the back wheel slots in), the BikeRegister number plus any other distinguishing features, and take a photo.
• Double-lock it
It can take thieves as little as few seconds to cut through some locks, so use 2 good quality locks, at least one of which is a D-lock.
• Lock the lot
Lock the frame and both wheels to the cycle parking stand.
• Secure it
Secure your bike as close to the stand as possible to give any thieves little or no room to manoeuvre.
• Remove the removable bits
Take parts that are easy to remove with you. Or use locking skewers or nuts which can increase security by securing the bike’s components to the frame permanently, making it difficult for thieves to steal detachable parts.
• Park secure
Lock your bike at recognised secure cycle parking. It should be well lit and covered by CCTV.
• Remember safety begins at home
Take the same care to lock your bike securely at home as you would on the street.
• Check ownership
Ask for proof of ownership and check the bike frame number on the Bike Checker at BikeRegister.
• Act fast
If your bike has been stolen, contact Police as soon as possible (you can report it online). Give your frame number, BikeRegister number, a photo and any other details and make sure you update the status on BikeRegister. The sooner Police know, the sooner they can act, which might stop it being sold on.
For more information visit https://www.hampshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/theft-of-a-bicycle/how-safe-is-your-bike/.
