Residents asked to be vigilant following spate of moped thefts in Cheltenham

Officers in Cheltenham are asking residents to be vigilant following a series of moped and motorbike thefts across the town.

Since 23 August, there have been 17 reported thefts of mopeds and motorbikes as well as reports of attempted thefts, suspicious activity and people riding in a dangerous or erratic manner.

Officers have been conducting a number of enquiries into the incidents such as reviewing CCTV footage, additional patrols and house to house enquiries.

Earlier this month two 12-year-old boys were arrested on suspicion of theft and dangerous driving and released on bail after a member of the public reported a moped being hidden behind a shop in Hatherley. Enquiries established that the vehicle had been reported stolen so it was recovered by officers.

The Neighbourhood Policing Team is asking anyone with information or footage they feel may help to identify those responsible for the thefts to get in contact by completing the following online form and quoting incident 352 of 10 September: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

Inspector Steve Benbow from the Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "Criminals are quick to exploit any opportunity they are presented with, so I would urge motorists to ensure their mopeds and motorbikes are securely locked and parked in well-lit areas where possible."

You can help protect your vehicle from theft by following these measures:

1) Store your key fob, and any spares, inside a key signal blocker pouch such as a faraday pouch or box.

2) Store your keys away from the front or back door.

3) Consider using more traditional crime prevention methods such as a steering wheel lock or clamp, use of CCTV and security lighting

4) Some keys can have the wireless signal turned off - look inside your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.

5) Park defensively by going near to a wall or by using another vehicle to block you in, or park in the garage if you have one.

6) You can have your vehicle fitted with a tracker or if you're buying a new vehicle ask the showroom about the cost of activating the inbuilt manufacturer's system

Further advice on keeping your vehicle secure can be found here: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/