Three Arrested in Portsmouth Bike Crime Crackdown
Hampshire Constabulary teamed up with the Ministry of Defence to make three arrests in Portsmouth on Thursday, January 19, targeting a surge in cycle thefts. This operation, dubbed Operation Cluedo, is part of the Charles Dickens Neighbourhood Policing Team’s drive to smash cycle crime after tip-offs from local communities.
Three Suspects Nabbed Over Cycle Theft
- A 16-year-old boy from Fratton was arrested for the theft of a pedal cycle and conspiracy to steal another.
- A 22-year-old man from Fratton faces the same charges.
- Another 22-year-old man from Southsea was also arrested on suspicion of stealing a pedal cycle and conspiring to steal more.
All three suspects have been bailed until March 13, 2017, pending further investigation.
Police Urge Cyclists to Lock Up and Stay Alert
Sergeant Richard Holland urged locals to register their bikes to boost the odds of getting stolen cycles back. “We’re working hard to crack down on bike thieves in Portsmouth,” he said. “With help from other forces, we’re hitting offenders hard.”
He added, “The public can help by reporting suspicious behaviour and making sure they secure their bikes with a sturdy D lock.”
How to Help Fight Cycle Crime
Officers thanked the community for their support and urged anyone with information on cycle theft to come forward.
- Call police on 101
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
- In an emergency or if a crime is happening, dial 999 immediately
