Spate of bicycle thefts

Bicycle Network: Latest News

Over the last six months, police in the City of and City of Melbourne have seen an increase in bicycle thefts from public places, residential and commercial properties i.e. residential car park storage cages, bicycle stores and in areas around educational institutions.

Common brands stolen are high-end Giant, Trek, Avanti, Scott and Cannondale.

Police are advising riders to secure their bicycles/wheels to parking rails and remove additional components i.e. lights, bike bags. 

Traders are requested to target harden their property through measures such as alarms (audible/monitored), CCTV cameras, good quality locks, appropriate lighting and/or window security film, shutters or similar on windows/doors.

Police believe the bicycles are stolen and then sold on the street for a tenth of their retail value, as well as through online classified websites i.e. eBay, Gumtree etc. Other bicycles may also be stripped and the parts disposed of online etc.

If you see someone acting suspiciously Ring '000' or if you have information in regards to a crime either ring Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, report it on-line at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au  or through the i-phone app 'stop crime'.

Victoria Police and Bicycle Network recommends the following advice regarding bicycle security. 

• Using a good quality lock.  The most popular locks are the D shaped locks, flexible metal cables or a chain and padlock. D shaped locks generally provide a higher level of security. Ride On magazine tested the strength and security of 26 locks. See the results from Ride On magazine's annual locks test.
• Locking your bike properly.  Park it in a place that is well lit and in full view of the public.  Lock it to something that cannot be removed or the bike lifted over.  Even if you are securing your bike in a storage cage, it is still advisable to lock the wheels and frame to the parking rail.
• Identify your bike  Record your serial number and engrave your drivers licence number commencing with V for Victoria then the numbers onto the frame of the bike (i.e. V12345678).  This will assist if your bike is stolen and increase the chances of having it returned.  Take a photo of your bike to be able to provide an accurate description to police.
• Insuring your bike.  This may be a consideration for riders and the most cost effective way to do this may be to insure it as a part of your home and contents insurance.  Ask your insurance company for details.

For more information regarding bike engraving events or how to contact your nearest crime prevention officer, please visit the sites listed below.

https://www.facebook.com/eyewatchmelbournepsa

http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=9539

post from sitemap