Lowestoft - Theft of mopeds

Police in Lowestoft are investigating seven incidents of a theft or attempted theft of a moped or small motorcycle that have occurred this week.

Each incident occurred during the hours of darkness, and police are urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity they might see or hear. If you believe someone is tampering with a vehicle or a crime is in progress, always dial 999.

Officers are also advising owners to pay extra attention to their bike and vehicle security with the onset of lighter nights – often seen as an opportunist time for this type of crime.

If you follow the guidance below you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

•         Use a disc lock on the front wheel to stop your bike being taken away. Fit grip locks to the throttle & engage the steering lock.

•         Secure the rear wheel with steel chains and a padlock. Attach the chain to a ground anchor or a fixed object.

•         Bike covers prevent immediate access to the controls and security features and make it more difficult for thieves. Sometimes thieves may also be ‘shopping’ for a certain model and covering it makes it harder for them to find what they want.

Further crime prevention advice can be found on the Suffolk police website https://www.suffolk.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/theft-motorcycles-scooters/

Officers are keeping an open mind as to whether this recent spate is linked to the same individual(s):

• 14 April -  Attempted theft of moped from Cambridge Road – 37/20690/24
  
  
• 15 April – Moped stolen from Oxford Road; later abandoned on Park Road. Two teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and have subsequently been released on bail until 29 May - 37/20649/24
  
  
• 17 April – Moped stolen from Love Road – 37/21268/24
  
  
• 17 April – Moped found discarded in the bushes of Howley Garden play park, with registration plate removed – 37/21177/24

• 19 April -  Attempted theft and damage of Yamaha motorcycle from Church Road – CAD 30
  
  
• 19 April – Honda motorcycle found discarded and damaged near Kirkley Park Road – CAD 64
  
  
• 19 April – Moped stolen from Beaconsfield Road – CAD 97

Anyone with information about these incidents, or who may have captured suspicious activity on home CCTV or home doorbells, should report to Lowestoft police quoting the relevant crime or CAD number.

Website – https://www.suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

Email - [email protected]

Phone – Call 101

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, please call 999