Cops hand out free locks
Plymouth cops battle crimewave with security offer at event
‘We’re seeing two bikes stolen a day and want to help owners’ PCSO CHANTELLE WILDMAN
After a surge in motorcycle thefts across Plymouth, with over 60 stolen in the last six weeks, Devon and Cornwall Police are to give away 80 locks and chains to help keep riders’ machines safe. The move, which is part of an anti-theft campaign will see the chains being given away at a bike security event take place aimed at educating bikers into making sure their machines stay under lock and key both at home and away. The event, which takes place this Sunday at Milehouse Car Park in Devonport, will see officers from the local area handing out the chains being offered on a firstcome-first-served basis. In addition to the local officers there will also be members of the Devon Freewheelers Blood Bikes and Devon and Cornwall Police motorcyclists, who will both be on hand to offer advice to bikers. Devon has been a victim of bike theft recently, with crime gangs known to have travelled from as far away as Birmingham in vans to steal bikes. Police are asking riders to stay vigilant.
PCSO Chantelle Wildman of Devonport neighbourhood policing team told local media, “People who come along with their bikes will be shown the most effective way to attach bike chains. We’re seeing up to two motorbikes and scooters stolen a day and we want to help owners safeguard their possession as well as riding safely.
“It has been funded by Plymouth City Council’s community safety team and will be given to those bike owners who turn up with their vehicles on a first-come-first-served basis. “This is a city-wide issue and the event will be family friendly, so please come along with your families and learn about riding safely and securely.”
‘Gangs have travelled to Devon from as far away as Birmingham’