Jan 27 – RGP Warn Public About Increase In Motorcycle Theft

Written on 27 January 2015.

The Royal Gibraltar Police has said that there has been a recent increase in the theft and attempted theft of motorcycles / mopeds across Gibraltar. In recent weeks, the Yamaha Cygnus moped in particular has been targeted for such thefts. The thefts have occurred both from roadside parking areas as well as from underground garage areas within housing estates.

The public are urged to report any suspicious activity witnessed which could assist Police to identify and/or apprehend person(s) responsible for these thefts. In a recent case, a motorcar with two occupants stopped alongside a motorcycle parking bay and one of the occupants alighted and quickly set about stealing a motorcycle. The quick intervention of a passer-by enabled Police to prevent the motorcycle being ridden across the frontier into Spain.

The RGP has porovided a few simple tips which could help to make your motorcycle a less attractive target for thieves;

 Invest in a security device / immobiliser and always use it. The few seconds it takes to attach it may determine whether your moped/motorcycle stolen or not

 Whenever possible, park in public areas which are well lit at night and, if at all possible, falling within scope of public CCTV cameras

 If parking within a private parking space in an estate, opt for a ground anchor for increased security.

 Refrain from leaving helmets strapped to the outside frame of the moped. You are only making things easier for a would-be moped thief and, at the very least, inviting the theft of the helmet!

 If parking for an extended period of time, consider removing the battery and keeping it at home.

For more general Crime Prevention advice please remember to visit the RGP website on www.police.gi