Police operation to tackle bike theft

Police operation to tackle bike theft

Pedal cycle security is the focus of a police initiative following an increase in the theft of bikes in Hatfield.

Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) officers have increased patrols in hotspot areas and will be speaking to bike owners about the importance of ensuring bikes are left secure when unattended.

Welwyn Hatfield West NPT Sergeant Mitchell Cartwright, said: “We have seen an increase in the number of reports of bicycle thefts in Hatfield and so are reminding owners of crime prevention steps which can be taken to deter thefts from taking place and prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.

“The most important thing to remember is to double lock your bike, use a sufficient lock and register the frame number, please have a read through the tips below and look out for our free bike marking events advertised on Herts Connected (www.hertsconnected.co.uk).

“We are also taking action by increasing patrols in areas where thefts have been reported and are asking people who may have information about thefts which have taken place to report details to us.”

Crime Prevention tips to secure your pedal cycle

Using two locks slows thieves down and makes your bike less of a target. Use two quality locks, at least one of which is a D-lock.

Lock the frame and both wheels to a secure cycle stand.

Take parts that are easy to remove with you, such as wheels, lights, baskets or the saddle.

Lock your bike at recognised secure cycle parking. It should be well lit and covered by CCTV.

Get your bike security marked. It’s a highly effective, visible deterrent to bike thieves.

Take the same care to lock your bike securely at home as you would on the street.

If your bike has been stolen, contact us as soon as possible by reporting online. Give us your frame number, cycle database number, a photo and any other details and make sure you update the status on the cycle database where you registered it.

You can report information about bike theft online at www.herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at www.herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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