Police Launch Crackdown On Moped Thefts

Police forces across London have launched a joint operation to crackdown on the theft of mopeds, scooters and motorcycles.

Operation Venice will see police conducting targeted operations and crime prevention activities across the capital.

Police will carry out mass checks on parked up mopeds, high visibility patrols in key crime hot spots, and provide free locks to owners at motor cycle parking bays.

There will also be targeted raids on individuals suspected of stealing the vehicles or using them to commit crimes such as robbery.

It is understood that while other motor vehicles have become more secure, there has been a significant rise in criminals using stolen mopeds and scooters for use in committing crime. In the last 12 months, there were in excess of 9,900 moped, scooter and motorcycle thefts reported across London – or some 27 thefts every day.

Detective Superintendent Raffaele D’Orsi who leads Operation Venice said: "The tri-borough pilot identified opportunities for police officers, local authorities and the wider partnership to work together to make London a safer place to live and visit.

"We are committed to taking every opportunity to divert, disrupt, detect and prosecute those involved in moped, scooter and motor cycle related criminality. This robust and collaborative response will ensure more offenders are brought to justice, and through industry engagement the vehicles are better protected with improved security measures".

Police have produced a list of advise for owners:

• Parking - choose designated parking with a stand and security loop, or if this is not available try areas with lots of people, good lighting and CCTV

• Locks - use more than one lock, focusing on disc locks and chain locks, fitted tight to the bike and through difficult to remove parts

• Time - when leaving your bike for a long period or overnight, lock it to something secure and use a motorbike cover. At home consider using fitted anchors to secure your bike

• Attention - use audible alarms where possible to draw unwanted attention to the thieves

• Marking - choose to mark your bike parts with the vehicle identification number (VIN) number, your postcode or registration number using an ultraviolet marker pen or property marking kit

• Insurance - some companies will offer discounts on your insurance if you invest in certain security measures, so ask before you make your purchase

(MH/CD)