Bike thefts are a priority for the north-east police division all year round but we see an increase in this sort of crime over the summer months as more people cycle.
Operation Armour is an annual initiative to prevent, deter and detect bike thefts.
It relaunched this year at the beginning of April and the campaign will run throughout the summer months across Aberdeen.
Throughout this period, myself and four constables are focused entirely on this operation.
We carry out plain clothes and high visibility foot and mobile patrols, and work in partnership with colleagues from specialist units to deter and disrupt thieves.
Between April and May of this year, we recovered 47 bikes, several of which were returned to their rightful owners.
In total, 22 people were charged with 61 offences in connection with thefts of push bikes.
Reuniting recovered bikes
We have posted appeals on social media to reunite recovered bikes with their owners.
I would encourage a check of our Facebook page if you or anyone you know has had their bike stolen.
Another important part of the operation is the education of bike owners on simple but effective security measures.
Operation Armour officers have joined forces with Edinburgh Bicycle this year to promote bike security.
The demand for bicycles has never been greater and so they’re being targeted regularly by thieves.
It’s worth investing in a good quality lock to secure your bike. Buy the best quality one which you can afford.
As a rough guide, consider spending around 10 per cent of the value of your bike on a lock.
Look out for those that have been endorsed as “Sold Secure” or “Secured by Design“.
Preventing theft
It’s not enough to simply lock your bicycle whenever it is left unattended for a longer period. Modern bikes are light and can be carried away quickly.
Whether a bicycle stand, lamp post or metal fence, a bike must be locked onto something and whatever you choose, it must be at least as secure as the lock itself.
Ideally, use two different types of lock because a thief will need more tools to steal it.
The best place for your bike at night is a locked room, for example, a cellar or garage and it should always be secured with a bicycle lock – ideally combined with a ground anchor.
If bicycles cannot be locked onto something, for example, in the hall or garage, simply lock several bikes together.
Photograph your bike and record all of your bike’s details, including the serial number and any distinguishing features and keep these in a safe place.
The serial number can be found on the bottom bracket. Also consider using a bike registration scheme to mark your bicycle.
How to contact police
Not only is this a deterrent to thieves but, should you be unlucky enough to have your bike stolen, it increases the chances of getting your bicycle back.
If you have any information in relation to bike theft, you can telephone the police via 101 or by using the “contact us” form on the Police Scotland website.
Alternatively, you can report anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers, by calling: 0800 555 111.
If you need any further information, you can email our crime reduction officers on: NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
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