Bike theft arrests in Middleton

Police in Middleton recently arrested a man and a teenage boy on suspicion of stealing a pedal cycle and going equipped to steal.

The incident happened just after 3.00am on Thursday 26 April 2012 when the pair broke into a shed on Barratt Gardens in Middleton after gaining entry by removing a fence panel.

They then removed three bikes from the shed.

Officers on patrol in the area came across the 19-year-old man and the 14-year-old youth, both from Middleton, while they were dragging one of the bikes behind them. They had been unable to remove the lock.

The man was cautioned for the offence and the youth was given a final warning by the council’s youth offending team.

All the bikes have since been returned to the rightful owner.

Inspector Gary Hall of the Middleton Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We recommend locking bicycles through the frame when leaving them unattended, as well as locking the wheels and other detachable parts.

“Marking your bike can also be an effective deterrent, and security marking should be clearly visible and in two separate locations. We recommend that bikes are marked with a post code followed by a house number. Finally, it is a good idea to register your bike, as well as any other valuables, for free at www.immobilise.com as this will increase your chances of having it returned should it be lost or stolen.”

For non-emergency calls or to report a crime call police on 101, or for more information visit gmp.police.uk/middleton

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Use 999 only in emergencies where there is a threat to life or property or a crime in progress.