Bike thefts have spiked by 152 per cent across East Cambridgeshire, Spotted in Ely can reveal.
Figures supplied to us by police today show that between April and September, 53 thefts were reported to police – up from 21 during the same period last year.
Ely has been hit the hardest, followed by Littleport, with both towns being particularly targeted at or near railway stations, crime reduction officer Sue Loaker said.
“Unfortunately many cycles stolen were not secured with a lock or the lock was of a poor quality.”
East Cambridgeshire policing teams are working with British Transport Police to tackle the problem.
“By taking preventative measures you can reduce the risk of your bike being stolen and improving your chances of recovering it if it is unfortunately stolen.”
Police recommend registering bikes on the Immobilise database. This helps officers reunite stolen bikes with their owners and assists with prosecution.
Cyclists are also advised to use bike racks located in visible, well lit areas and look out for police-led cycle engraving events locally, which are advertised on eCops, Facebook and Twitter.
Two people have been arrested and charged by police in relation to cycle crime.
Statistically over 500,000 bikes ate stolen annually across the country according to the British Crime Survey, and the numbers continue to rise.
For more information on securing your bike click here.
