10 moped thefts in Wisbech prompt police to urge safety among scooter drivers

Police in Fenland are urging people to secure their bikes following recent moped thefts.

During the month of March, there were 10 reported thefts of mopeds, eight of which were in Wisbech.

The other two in nearby Newton-on-the-Isle and Gorefield.

Inspector Andy Morris, from the Fenland Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We’re seeing an increase in mopeds, of all makes and models, being taken from driveways, car parks and public places by simply being wheeled away.

"We are increasing patrols and will be utilising a number of tactics to identify and apprehend those responsible

“Thieves only need a matter of seconds to steal one, especially if they are left with poor security, so we’re asking people to ‘lock, chain and cover’.”

Officers are advising motorists to:

Lock: Use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc.

Chain: Use a chain lock through the back wheel and, where possible, secure your bike with the lock to an immovable object like a ground anchor or street furniture.

Cover:Thieves often ‘shop’ for particular models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them.

There are other measures that can be taken including fitting an alarm, marking parts of the bike to make them difficult for criminals to sell on, and keeping your bike in a garage or shed or in a well-lit area with CCTV.

Find advice on how to protect your motorcycle, moped or scooter from theft on the force's website.

Anyone with information about the thefts, or who may have captured suspicious activity on home CCTV or video doorbells, should report to police online or call 101. If you believe a crime is in action, always dial 999.